Harwell Research Reactors Decommissioning
Harwell, Oxfordshire, UK · Operations 1946-1990s, Decommissioning ongoing · Part of NRS decommissioning budget
The judgement call
Account action unavailableTwo reactors have been completely removed, and fuel removed from others, demonstrating significant progress in hazard reduction. - The demolition of the reactor complex (including Zephyr) marks a key milestone in the site's transformation. - The site is being redeveloped into a science and innovation campus, showcasing successful repurposing of former nuclear sites.
Key engineering challenges
Decommissioning a complex site with multiple experimental reactors of varying designs. - Managing diverse radioactive waste streams from research activities. - Demolishing reactor buildings and associated facilities while ensuring safety and environmental protection. - Addressing the long-term legacy of pioneering nuclear research.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS)
- Lead contractor
- KDC Veolia (for specific demolition phases)
- Lead designers
- —
- Project type
- decommissioning
- Scale
- 14 experimental reactors originally, two completely removed, fuel removed from three others (e.g., Zephyr fast fission reactor)
- Disciplines
- nuclear; civil; structural; mechanical; electrical; waste management; remote handling
- Standards & frameworks
- ONR
Sources: ONR: Harwell (https://www.onr.org.uk/our-work/what-we-regulate/sellafield-decommissioning-fuel-and-waste/sites/harwell) - NRS SSG: Harwell site (https://nrsssg.com/site/harwell/) - New Civil Engineer: Harwell reactor complex demolished by KDC Veolio for NRS (https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/harwell-reactor-complex-demolished-by-kdc-veolio-for-nrs-06-08-2025/) - UK Radioactive Waste & Materials Inventory: Harwell (https://ukinventory.nda.gov.uk/site/harwell/) - Harwell Campus: History (https://www.harwellcampus.com/history/)