Port of Blyth decom partner awarded NORM Treatment Permit

The Port of Blyth’s decommissioning partner Thompsons of Prudhoe has been successful in its application for a RSR Permit from the Environmental Agency for the on-site treatment of NORM contaminated waste at the Blyth decom facility.

Port of Blyth decom partner awarded NORM Treatment Permit
Photo: Port of Blyth

The licence runs alongside the Port’s Environmental Permit for receiving and handling up to 50,000 tonne throughput of Oil & Gas assets per year including the handling of NORM contaminated materials.

The successful application for the NORM treatment licence is a critical step towards providing customers with a ‘one-stop-shop’ for onshore decommissioning operations, in support of their ongoing and future decommissioning plans.

In addition, operation of the new NORM Treatment Facility located on-site will remove the requirement to transport NORM contaminated materials to other facilities in the UK and will therefore help to reduce carbon emissions in support of the UK’s Net Zero aspirations.

Alan Todd, Port Director at the Port of Blyth, said:

“We’re delighted to that Thompsons of Prudhoe were successful in their application for an Environment Agency licence to treat NORM contaminated waste as it simplifies the process of supporting our customers’ decommissioning needs and helps make Blyth an even more attractive option for our clients. It also enhances the partnership between the Port and Thompsons of Prudhoe, with both sides bringing vast experience and competency in a range of complementary areas.”

Construction of the Treatment Facility is progressing well and is due for completion in November 2021.