A MAJOR Sellafield project has taken a step forward as construction is able to get underway – thanks to the assembling of three giant cranes.

The cranes have been assembled on the Sellafield SIXEP Continuity Plant site.

It means that the project is able to accelerate into the construction phase, with the pouring of concrete and erection of re-enforcing steel.

The plant is one of a portfolio of projects being delivered under the Programme and Projects Partnership model.

The model, which is unique in the UK construction industry, is transforming major project delivery at Sellafield. It brings together KBR, Jacobs, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure Ltd, Doosan Babcock and Sellafield Ltd as the fifth partner.

It is helping to drive improvements in procurement,and job creation, amongst other benefits.

Jeremy Hunt, Sellafield Ltd’s head of projects, said: "It’s fantastic to see the SIXEP Continuity Plant project powering ahead.

“The plant will play a vital role in delivering our mission to create a clean and safe environment for future generations.

“The erection of the cranes is an important enabling step and a visible skyline change.

“But the story behind it is even more crucial. Through the partnership we are transforming the way our major projects are delivered, creating benefits for our mission, our communities, and the local and national economies.

“I’d like to thanks everyone involved for their dedication and professionalism in achieving this milestone."