In the summer of 2025, Alvance British Aluminium has invested more than £500,000 in a major upgrade to the alumina reclaim system at our Ship Unloading and Rail Loading Facility in Blyth. The work is part of a wider multi-million-pound investment to introduce the new JPA rail wagons and modernise the full transport chain between Blyth and Fort William.

At Blyth, the project delivered a complete replacement of the rail loading system, including airslides, valves and retractable spouts. The loading electrical and control systems were upgraded, and the existing weighbridge was removed to allow the installation of new rail track and a TrackCell weighing system. The underground structure was also strengthened to support higher loads.

Further works included the refurbishment of the Unilock Rail Shunter with improved CCTV and remote-control operation, and smaller modifications to platforms and pipework at our smelter to align with the changes at the port.

By completing this work, we have strengthened a critical part of the process that links alumina supply to production in Lochaber.

We are grateful for the expertise and support of our suppliers and contractors who made this project possible: William Curle, GV Engineering, Vortex Global, Fairhurst Newcastle, The Impulse Group, C&D Access, Port of Blyth, VTG Rail UK, Mandy Rail, Feldbinder, Bycroft Consulting, Avery Weigh-Tronix, Group Tegula, GB Railfreight, NEWCo and Gibson’s Engineering Ltd.

You can read more about the wider rail investment in our recent article on the introduction of the JPA wagons here.

For further information, please contact:

Colleen MacLean

• Email: Colleen.MacLean@alvancegroup.com