Wylfa Decommissioning But With Good Propects For Future Nuclear Dvelopments
4th June 2026
Wylfa, located on Anglesey, North Wales, is a historic nuclear site that operated from 1971 to 2015, featuring the UK's largest and last Magnox reactors.
Known for its significant contribution to UK energy, it is currently undergoing decommissioning while being designated as a premier location for new, small modular reactor (SMR) technology.
Key Historical Background
Construction and Operation: Construction began in 1963, and it became operational in 1971. It was the second nuclear site in Wales and boasted two 490 MW Magnox reactors.
Significance: It was the largest and final Magnox-type reactor station built in the UK and featured a pre-stressed concrete pressure vessel.
Closure: The station officially ended its 44-year generation run on December 30, 2015, marking the end of Magnox reactor operations in the UK.
Defueling
Defueling was completed in September 2019, with over 87,000 fuel elements transported to Sellafield.
Current Status and Future Decommissioning
The site is currently under the care of Nuclear Restoration Services Limited (part of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority).
New Nuclear Project
In 2024 and 2025, the UK government identified Wylfa as a preferred site for new large-scale nuclear projects and future Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Future Development
The site is expected to host a new, high-capacity nuclear station, potentially from developers like Rolls-Royce SMR, aimed at powering millions of homes. The site is considered ideal due to its history, grid infrastructure, and local workforce.
Sparks Magazine
The June edition of The Spark highlights a landmark period for GBE‑N, with the signing of the Rolls‑Royce SMR contract, growing momentum at Wylfa, and strengthened partnerships across industry and local communities.
It also showcases progress in building our delivery capability, engaging the next generation through initiatives like Fission Chips, and advancing ground investigation at Oldbury, all underpinned by our mission to deliver the UK’s first small modular reactors.