Demolition works at Aberthaw power station marks major transformation
The turbine hall and deaerator bays at the former Aberthaw Power Station site have now been demolished, with dramatic footage of the demolition recorded for future generations.
CCR Energy Ltd, established by the Cardiff Capital Region, is spearheading the redevelopment of the site. As part of the programme, its demolition contractor, Erith Contractors, working in partnership with explosive engineering specialists Precision Demolition Company (PDC), has successfully carried out the controlled demolition of the structures.
The turbine hall was among the largest and most intricate structures remaining at the Aberthaw site. Stretching over 230 metres and built from robust reinforced concrete and structural steel, it formerly contained the main turbine and auxiliary equipment used for electricity generation. Due to its size and structural complexity, the demolition required thorough engineering assessments, careful sequencing, and several months of preparatory work to ensure it could be safely and systematically dismantled.
The demolition was carried out safely and precisely by Erith and PDC, supported by on-site safety teams and delivered in line with agreed safety and environmental controls. The operation formed a key part of the wider demolition and site-enabling programme now underway at Aberthaw.
This milestone marks an important step in preparing the site for long-term regeneration. The scale and strategic coastal location of Aberthaw provide opportunities to support a range of innovative sustainable energy, industrial, advanced manufacturing and innovation-led uses, subject to technical feasibility, market demand and planning considerations. The project is being delivered through a phased, evidence-led approach that prioritises flexibility, rather than committing to a single predefined outcome.
Speaking at the time of demolition, Paul Matthews, Chair of CCR Energy Board, said: “Today’s demolition represents a major milestone in the transformation of Aberthaw. The turbine hall was a significant industrial structure, and safely delivering its controlled demolition required extensive planning, technical expertise and close collaboration across specialist teams.
“This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Aberthaw as we continue to prepare the site for a future focused on renewable energy, environmental resilience and long-term community benefit.”
Operations Director Andy Dyson added: “The turbine hall was a large and technically complex structure, requiring detailed engineering assessment and a rigorous, safety-led approach. Our team worked closely with CCR Energy and PDC to deliver a controlled and successful demolition, and we are proud to be contributing to this important phase of the site’s transformation.”
Cormac McLean, Managing Director, PDC: “The controlled demolition of a structure of this scale and complexity requires extensive modelling, precise sequencing and close coordination. The turbine hall blowdown was the result of months of preparation, and we are pleased to have delivered a safe and accurate outcome that enables the next phase of redevelopment at Aberthaw.”
What’s Next for Aberthaw?
Following the successful demolition of the turbine hall, works at Aberthaw will continue to focus on:
- Engagement with potential energy, industrial, circular economy and innovation partners
- Completion of the wider demolition programme, which remains on track
- Ongoing site remediation and preparation to unlock developable land
- Continued masterplanning, technical studies and infrastructure assessments
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