The first engineering train has arrived at the Sizewell C construction site on the Suffolk coast, marking a major milestone for the low-carbon development of the new nuclear power station.
The delivery signals a step change in how materials will be moved to site, supporting cleaner and more sustainable construction.
Reaching the Ancillary Construction Area on Monday, the train travelled along the newly upgraded Sizewell branch line delivered by Balfour Beatty Rail. The project aims to transport 60% of all construction materials by rail or sea, significantly reducing road traffic and associated emissions.
Each freight train is expected to remove around 50 heavy goods vehicles from local roads, helping cut congestion and air pollution.
Damian Leydon, Site Delivery Director at Sizewell C, said: “As rail deliveries increase in the months and years ahead, we’ll continue to reduce our carbon footprint and minimise disruption to the community. This is an important step toward building a power station that will serve the nation for generations.”
Rail deliveries will ramp up in phases, reaching up to four freight trains per day at peak operation. The future Green Rail Route will also provide a direct link to the Temporary Construction Area, bypassing Leiston.
As part of the upgrade, 4.5 miles of track are being renewed, crossings improved and new signalling installed.
Sections of the East Suffolk line linking Ipswich and Lowestoft are also being enhanced to support low-carbon logistics.
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