Projects

Transformative project marking a major step towards sustainable steelmaking in the UK

Our role

• The project involves the decarbonisation of Port Talbot Steelworks in South Wales, forming the primary element of Tata Steel’s £1.25 billion investment in transforming its UK operations.
• The EIA development covers the demolition of existing buildings, partial infill of a lagoon and construction of a new steelmaking facility featuring one electric arc furnace and two ladle furnaces.
• This work forms part of a wider programme delivering a 3.2 million tonne capacity Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), two new ladle metallurgy furnaces, a new pickle line, upgrades to casters and the hot strip mill, and upskilling of the local workforce for future low-carbon operations.
• Our Planning team leads the multi-disciplinary project, preparing and submitting the hybrid application, co-ordinating consultants and managing detailed engagement with Neath Port Talbot Council, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the Welsh Government.
• Our Strategic Communications, Sustainability, Economics and Design teams contribute through stakeholder engagement, preparation of the Design and Access Statement (DAS), and demonstrating how the development supports national and local goals for decarbonisation, investment, biodiversity, clean growth and job retention in this strategically important industrial location.

Results

• Hybrid planning permission was granted just four months after submission, with the decision notice issued on 7 March 2025 following submission on 7 November 2024.
• The project marks a major milestone in Tata Steel’s low-carbon transition, cutting reliance on blast furnaces and delivering up to a 90% reduction in onsite CO2 emissions. This surpasses Tata Steel’s 2030 target of 30% and represents over 71% of the UK Government’s forecast steel sector GHG savings, making it a key contributor to national decarbonisation.
• On-site works are underway, advancing one of the UK’s most significant industrial decarbonisation projects. The redevelopment secures the future of low-carbon steelmaking in the UK, cutting emissions by up to 90% and supporting national net zero and Clean Growth 2030 objectives.
• The scheme also delivers significant environmental and community benefits, including a projected 34% reduction in traffic from 2028 and the creation or enhancement of 30 hectares of habitat to support biodiversity.