We have used our proven track record in the design, development, delivery and operation of rail infrastructure to support vital decommissioning activities at Dounreay.

As part of its decommissioning programme, the civil nuclear site at Dounreay in the north of Scotland has a strategic requirement to move material to Sellafield.

Rail was identified as the preferred mode of transport to meet the demanding timescales of the programme. Detailed transport options and ‘fit for purpose’ facilities were required to deliver decommissioning activities, as well as the aspirations of the local community.

Our consultancy team completed a feasibility study to assess a number of siting options, the unused sidings at Georgemas Junction were selected as the ideal location to construct a new railhead to service Dounreay.

The project team then stepped in to design the new railhead and to deliver a complex range of pre-sanction activities.

Towards the end of 2011, DRS was contracted to construct the railhead facilities. The new railhead with its 110 tonne gantry crane was successfully completed on time and on budget, ready for operation in Summer 2012.

Georgemas Junction is now used to support the movement of materials from Dounreay, as well as providing the local economy with greatly improved rail freight handling capabilities which will continue to be used by the local community long after Dounreay is fully decommissioned.