GDL begins work at Torness for EGL1 project

The package of works, which includes approximately 350,000m³ of earthworks and soil modification, represents a vital early stage in the delivery of the Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) Project. The converter station at Torness, to be delivered by METLEN, a global energy and industrial company, will form a critical interface between the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea link and the UK’s onshore transmission network.

Kevin Mackenzie, managing director at GDL, said: “Having worked closely with our clients and their engineers during the early contractor involvement phase to develop the optimum design while considering the geotechnical constraints of the site, we are thrilled to now be commencing construction at Torness.

“This is a landmark project for the UK’s energy network, and our team is fully committed to delivering the earthworks and ground improvement scope safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.

“It’s fantastic to see national infrastructure projects being awarded to a regional contractor like GDL, with a high percentage of our long serving team living in the East Lothian area. We also plan to support local community groups throughout the duration of our contract over the next six months.”

GDL said it is proud to be contributing to the successful delivery of EGL1, a project that will play a key role in connecting clean energy across the UK. We look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to deliver the Torness contract successfully.

To complete the project, the firm will deploy a sizeable fleet of plant and equipment, including several new additions to its fleet such as a Komatsu PC700 and one of its new Wirtgen WR240x stabilisation mixers.

GDL is also engaged in pre-construction works for several other major infrastructure projects, which it looks forward to announcing in the coming months as construction begins on site.