Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), Port Talbot
Transforming steelmaking in Port Talbot through the delivery of a state-of-the-art Electric Arc Furnace
We led the planning strategy for Tata Steel UK's Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) project at Port Talbot Steelworks, a transformative development that represents the cornerstone of Tata Steel's £1.25 billion investment in the decarbonisation of UK steelmaking and the transition to low-carbon steel production.
The proposals form part of a wider programme to modernise steel production at Port Talbot, replacing traditional blast furnace operations with a new Electric Arc Furnace-based steelmaking process. The development includes demolition of existing infrastructure, partial infill of a lagoon and construction of a new steelmaking facility comprising an Electric Arc Furnace, two Ladle Metallurgy Furnaces and associated supporting infrastructure. The wider investment programme will also deliver upgrades to existing facilities, including the hot strip mill and casting operations, while supporting the upskilling of the workforce for future low-carbon manufacturing.
Co-ordinating planning for a major industrial development
As lead planning consultant, we co-ordinated a multidisciplinary team throughout the preparation and submission of a hybrid planning application for one of the most significant industrial projects currently being delivered in the UK. Our role included managing the planning strategy, co-ordinating technical consultants, overseeing stakeholder engagement and leading discussions with Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Natural Resources Wales and the Welsh Government.
Integrated support
Our Strategic Communications, Economics, Sustainability and Design teams provided specialist support throughout the project. This included stakeholder engagement, preparation of the Design and Access Statement and demonstrating the significant economic, environmental and social benefits arising from the proposals. The project plays a critical role in supporting national and local objectives relating to decarbonisation, investment, clean growth, biodiversity enhancement and the long-term future of steelmaking in South Wales.
Hybrid planning permission was granted just four months after submission, with unanimous planning approval secured in February 2025 and the decision notice issued on 7 March 2025. The rapid determination reflected the strength of the project team’s collaborative approach and the strategic importance of the development to Wales and the wider UK economy.
The approved scheme represents a major milestone in Tata Steel's transition to low-carbon steelmaking. Once operational, the Electric Arc Furnace will reduce onsite carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90% compared with previous blast furnace operations, exceeding Tata Steel's 2030 emissions reduction target and making a significant contribution to UK decarbonisation objectives. The project is supported by £500 million of UK Government funding and will help safeguard approximately 5,000 jobs while securing the long-term future of steelmaking at Port Talbot.
In addition to its carbon reduction benefits, the development will deliver wider environmental and community gains, including a projected reduction in traffic movements from 2028 and the creation and enhancement of approximately 30 ha of habitat to support biodiversity.
Construction is now underway and the project is set to become one of the UK's most significant industrial decarbonisation schemes, positioning Port Talbot at the forefront of sustainable steel production and helping to deliver the transition to a cleaner, greener manufacturing economy.
Emily Bell
Director, Strategic Communications, Net Zero Infrastructure Lead
