Guidance

Oil and gas: decommissioning of offshore installations and pipelines

Decommissioning programmes, including dates, locations, installations decommissioned, method of decommissioning and close-out reports where available.

Overview

The decommissioning of offshore oil and gas installations and pipelines on the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS) is controlled through the Petroleum Act 1998.

The responsibility for ensuring that the requirements of the Petroleum Act 1998 are complied with rests with the Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning (OPRED) which sits within the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Owners of oil and gas installations and pipelines are required to decommission their offshore infrastructure at the end of a field’s economic life and the 1998 Act requires owners to set out the measures to decommission disused installations and/or pipelines in a decommissioning programme.

A decommissioning programme must identify all the items of equipment, infrastructure and materials that have been installed or drilled and describe the decommissioning solution for each.

OPRED aims to be transparent in its consideration of decommissioning programmes. As a result members of the public, other organisations, non-governmental organisations and other government departments or agencies are invited to comment on the proposals set out in a programme.

Details of the current programmes under consideration are noted in the table below.

OPRED provides guidance on the regulatory requirements for decommissioning. Final guidance on the Environmental Considerations for Decommissioning (Section 12) has now been incorporated into the guidance notes Offshore Oil and Gas Decommissioning Guidance Notes November 2018 (PDF, 1.27 MB, 138 pages).

Consultation on our Financial Assurance Guidance for the Decommissioning of Offshore Oil and Gas Installations and Pipelines concluded on 31 March 2019. Comments are being addressed and a final draft will be published in due course. Draft Financial Assurance Guidance (PDF, 300 KB, 17 pages)

The guidance outlines how the government assesses the financial capability of persons with a relevant interest in or considering taking an interest in an offshore oil or gas field. For the purposes of satisfying the Secretary of State that that person will be capable of carrying out a decommissioning programme in relation to that interest.

It explains our financial assurance policy and existing processes setting out the steps taken to assess the financial health of offshore oil and gas companies with an interest or potential interest in a field, outlining how and when we may use the statutory powers set out in the Petroleum Act 1998.

If you have any comments or questions relevant to the guidance, please email us at odu@beis.gov.uk.

Proposed changes to charging a fee in respect of decommissioning offshore (oil and gas) installations and pipelines under the Petroleum Act 1998 as amended by the Energy Act 2008

The aim of this consultation is to formally seek views from stakeholders such as offshore oil and gas operators, companies with an interest in decommissioning offshore oil and gas installations and pipelines, and other interested parties, on the proposal to update the charging regime for activity related to the regulatory functions for the decommissioning of offshore oil and gas installations. Fees consultation document - May 2021 (PDF, 224 KB, 19 pages) Offshore oil and gas cost recovery consultation impact assessment (PDF, 247 KB, 11 pages)

To provide your response, please complete the consultation response form below and e-mail it to odu@beis.gov.uk.

Fees consultation response form - May 2021 (ODT, 53.6 KB)

The deadline for responses is 16 August 2021.

Draft decommissioning programmes under consideration

Field Name Field Operator Status Main points of the programme Details
Caister CM Pipelines - CDP1bChrysaor Production (U.K.) LimitedDraft programme under consideration Buried pipelines will be left in situ and surface laid pipelines will be removed to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal. CDP1b Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 4.87 MB, 51 pages)
CMS Area Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 10 MB, 171 pages)
CMS Area Comparative Assessment (PDF, 13 MB, 144 pages)
Caister-Murdoch System III Installations and Pipelines - Boulton BM, Boulton HM, Hawksley EM, Katy KT, Kelvin TM, McAdam MM, Munro MH, Murdoch K.KM, Watt QM, and Pipelines - CDP2Chrysaor Production (U.K.) LimitedDraft programmes under consideration All topsides and jackets will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Buried pipelines will be left in situ and surface laid pipeline ends will be recovered CDP2 Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 14.1 MB, 124 pages)
CMS Area Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 10 MB, 171 pages)
CMS Area Comparative Assessment (PDF, 13 MB, 144 pages)
Murdoch Installations and Trunk Pipelines - Murdoch MA, Murdoch MC, Murdoch MD, & Associated Trunk Pipelines - CDP3Chrysaor Production (U.K.) LimitedDraft programmes under consideration All topsides and jackets will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Buried pipelines will be left in situ and all risers and surface laid pipeline ends will be recovered CDP3 Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 7.32 MB, 76 pages)
CMS Area Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 10 MB, 171 pages)
CMS Area Comparative Assessment (PDF, 13 MB, 144 pages)
Saltire A Topsides and Saltire Area Subsea Infrastructure Decommissioning Programmes Repsol Sinopec Resources UK Limited Draft programmes under consideration The topsides will be transported ashore for dismantling, refurbished for re-use where possible, recycling or disposal as appropriate. Subsea installations will be returned to shore for re-use where possible, recycling and disposal. Bundles will be left in situ Trenched and buried power cables and umbilicals will be left in situ with exposed sections being trenched and buried. Spools and transition sections shall be recovered to shore for reuse, recycling and disposal. Saltire A Topsides & Subsea DP (PDF, 1.57 MB, 56 pages)
Saltire CA (PDF, 4.24 MB, 109 pages)
Saltire EA (PDF, 6.19 MB, 104 pages)
Foinaven FPSO Offstation Decommissioning Programme Britoil Limited Draft programmes under consideration Removal of FPSO and mooring lines to shore for recycling. Disconnection and placement on seabed of associated risers and umbilicals. Pipelines will be cleaned and flushed. Temporary isolation of wells. Foinaven FPSO Offstation DP (PDF, 2.91 MB, 46 pages)
Hewett Area Subsea Installations Eni UK Limited Draft programme under consideration Subsea installations will be fully removed and recovered to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal Hewett Area Subsea Installations DP (PDF, 4.11 MB, 48 pages)
Hewett Area Subsea Installations EA (PDF, 14.7 MB, 137 pages)
Causeway and Fionn Ithaca Energy (UK) Limited Draft programmes under consideration Removal of all subsea installations, purge spool and valve skid structure to shore for recycling. Pipelines and umbilicals to remain in situ with cut ends being buried. All exposed end/tie-in spools will be completely removed and returned to shore for recycling. All wells will be plugged and abandoned. Causeway and Fionn DP (PDF, 2.88 MB, 57 pages)
Causeway and Fionn CA (PDF, 2.03 MB, 41 pages)
Causeway and Fionn EA (PDF, 6.77 MB, 94 pages)
Sean ONE-Dyas UK Limited Draft programmes under consideration 3 Platforms will be recovered to shore for reuse or recycling. SSIV protection structure, control umbilical and electrical cable will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Trenched and buried pipelines to be decommissioned in situ. Exposed sections will be remediated with rock dump. Sean Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.61 MB, 57 pages)
Sean Comparative Assessment (PDF, 2.86 MB, 109 pages)
Sean Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 9.43 MB, 170 pages)
LOGGS Satellites - Mimas MN, Saturn ND and Tethys TN, and Associated Infield Pipelines – LDP2 Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited Draft programmes under consideration All topsides and jackets will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Buried pipelines will be left in situ and the riser sections of pipelines will be removed to shore for re-use or recycling. LDP2 Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 4.55 MB, 85 pages)
LOGGS LDP2 - LDP5 Comparative Assessment (PDF, 3.21 MB, 203 pages)
LOGGS LDP2 - LDP5 Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 4.23 MB, 182 pages)
LOGGS Satellites V-Fields Area - Vanguard QD, North Valiant SP, South Valiant TD and Vulcan RD, and Associated Infield Pipelines - LDP4 Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited Draft programmes under consideration All topsides and jackets will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Buried pipelines will be left in situ. LDP4 Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.89 MB, 75 pages)
LOGGS LDP2 - LDP5 Comparative Assessment (PDF, 3.21 MB, 203 pages)
LOGGS LDP2 - LDP5 Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 4.23 MB, 182 pages)
Hummingbird FPSO Sailaway and Chestnut riser disconnection Spirit Energy North Sea Oil Limited Draft programme under consideration The FPSO will be removed from station and recovered to shore for recycling unless alternative re-use options can be found. All mooring suction anchors will be fully recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. All pipelines will be flushed and cleaned. The risers between the FPSO and the riser bases will be fully recovered to shore for recycling. Hummingbird FPSO Sailaway and Chestnut Riser disconnection Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 2.8 MB, 38 pages)
Victoria NEO Energy (SNS) Limited Draft programmes under consideration Wellhead protection structure will be recovered to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal. Trenched and buried sections of pipelines will be left in situ, removing the pipeline ends. Exposed concrete mattresses and grout bags will be recovered to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal. Victoria Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 5.05 MB, 47 pages)
Victoria Comparative Assessment (PDF, 3.18 MB, 76 pages)
Victoria Environmental Assessment (PDF, 5.53 MB, 118 pages)
Dunlin Alpha Field Fairfield Betula Limited Draft programme under consideration Decommissioning in situ of Dunlin Alpha concrete gravity based structure and storage cells. Dunlin Alpha Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 6.5 MB, 77 pages)
Dunlin Alpha Decommissioning Comparative Assessment Report (PDF, 3.66 MB, 133 pages) Dunlin Alpha Decommissioning Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 6.58 MB, 176 pages)
Brae Alpha, Brae Bravo, Central Brae, West Brae and Sedgwick Marathon Oil UK LLC Draft programmes under consideration Removal of Brae Alpha and Brae Bravo jackets to the top of the footings. Removal of Central Brae, West Brae and Sedgwick subsea installations. Pipelines to be decommissioned in a variety of ways including removal, trenching and leave in situ. Brae Alpha, Brae Bravo, Central Brae, West Brae and Sedgwick Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 15.3 MB, 120 pages)
Brae A etc, Environmental Statement – Main Report (PDF, 14.6 MB, 80 pages) Brae A etc. Environmental Statement - Technical Appendices (PDF, 13.3 MB, 96 pages) Brae A Substructure Comparative Assessment (PDF, 1.7 MB, 30 pages) Brae B Substructure Comparative Assessment (PDF, 1.59 MB, 30 pages) Brae Area Subsea Assets Comparative Assessment (PDF, 6.84 MB, 43 pages)
Brent Shell U.K. Limited Draft programmes under consideration Decommissioning in situ of Brent Bravo, Charlie and Delta concrete gravity based structures. Brent Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 12 MB, 322 pages)
Brent ES (PDF, 12.5 MB, 475 pages)
Brent EIA (PDF, 5.05 MB, 429 pages)
Brent ES Appendix (PDF, 2.52 MB, 45 pages) A suite of detailed Technical Documents which support the Decommissioning Programmes documents are available on the Shell Website
Atlantic and Cromarty BG Global Energy Limited and Hess Limited Draft programmes under consideration Manifold and Well head Protection structures (WHPS) to be removed for recycling/disposal. Partial removal of pipelines and remaining section of buried/trenched pipelines to remain in situ. Atlantic & Cromarty Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 1.76 MB, 50 pages)
Atlantic & Cromarty Stakeholder Report (PDF, 1.11 MB, 32 pages)
Atlantic & Cromarty Environmental Impact Assessment (PDF, 4.5 MB, 109 pages)
Atlantic & Cromarty Comparative Assessment (PDF, 2.06 MB, 110 pages)

Approved decommissioning programmes

Field Name Operator at approval Operator following licence / company change Main installations decommissioned Approved option Year of approval
Wenlock DP (PDF, 4.72 MB, 51 pages)Wenlock CA (PDF, 3.84 MB, 44 pages)Wenlock EA (PDF, 6.74 MB, 119 pages) Alpha Petroleum Resources Limited - Wenlock Platform Recovered to shore for Re-use/recycling or disposal. February 2022
Mid-Line tee protection structure Recovered to shore for Re-use/recycling or disposal. February 2022
Pipelines Trenched and buried pipelines will remain in situ, exposed tie-in spools and stabilisation features will be returned to shore for recycling. February 2022
Cormorant Alpha Topsides DP (PDF, 3.91 MB, 81 pages)Cormorant Alpha Topsides EA (PDF, 8.21 MB, 117 pages) TAQA Bratani Limited - Cormorant Alpha Topsides Recovered to shore for re-use/recycling or disposal February 2022
Caledonia Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.1 MB, 50 pages)Caledonia Comparative Assessment (PDF, 2.04 MB, 64 pages)Caledonia Environmental Assessment (PDF, 5.56 MB, 113 pages) Premier Oil UK Limited - Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or disposal February 2022
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid pipelines will be left in situ. Trench and buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or disposal February 2022
Thistle Topsides Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.11 MB, 38 pages) EnQuest Heather Limited - Topsides Recovery to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal December 2021
Indefatigable 18A Topsides Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.29 MB, 50 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Topsides Recovery to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal December 2021
Banff and Kyle Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 3.23 MB, 71 pages)Banff and Kyle Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 7.07 MB, 114 pages)Banff and Kyle Comparative Assessment (PDF, 2.75 MB, 106 pages) CNR International (U.K.) Limited - Subsea installations Returned to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal November 2021
Mooring Piles and chains Returned to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal November 2021
Pipelines Trenched pipelines will be left in situ. Surface laid pipelines will be fully removed and returned to shore. November 2021
Ensign installation DP (PDF, 2.52 MB, 37 pages)Ensign Pipelines DP (PDF, 1.99 MB, 42 pages)Ensign CA (PDF, 1.67 MB, 48 pages)Ensign EA (PDF, 9.45 MB, 134 pages) Spirit Energy North Sea Limited - Installations Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling August 2021
Pipelines Buried pipelines will be left in situ with exposed ends cut and removed. All associated exposed grout bags and concrete mattresses will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Concrete Plinths and existing rock will be left in situ. August 2021
Conrie, Don SW, W Don and Ythan Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 7.29 MB, 88 pages)Don SW and W Don Comparative Assessment (PDF, 5.33 MB, 76 pages)Conrie, Don SW, W Don and Ythan Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 8.07 MB, 132 pages) EnQuest Heather Limited - Installations Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal August 2021
Pipelines Surface laid pipelines will be cleaned, flushed and fully removed. Trenched and buried sections of pipelines will be left in situ. Associated concrete mattresses and grout bags will be recovered to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal. Existing rock dump will be left in situ August 2021
Fulmar and Auk North Topsides, Subsea Facilities and Pipelines Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.83 MB, 78 pages)Fulmar and Auk North Subsea Infrastructure and Pipelines Comparative Assessment (PDF, 4.63 MB, 144 pages)Fulmar & Auk North Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 5.17 MB, 114 pages) Repsol Sinopec Resources UK Limited - Fulmar and Auk North Topsides The topsides will be transported ashore for dismantling. Cleaned equipment refurbished for re-use where possible. Equipment which cannot be re-used will be recycled for other disposal routes as appropriate. July 2021
Fulmar and Auk North Subsea Facilities Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal. July 2021
Fulmar and Auk North Pipelines Trenched and buried stable pipelines will be left in situ. The tie-in spools and trench transition sections of the pipelines shall be cut, recovered and returned to shore for recycling. The exposed and insufficiently covered remaining sections of pipe shall be rock covered. July 2021
Heather Topsides Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 4.07 MB, 43 pages) EnQuest Heather Limited - Topsides Recovery to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal July 2021
Kingfisher Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.95 MB, 76 pages)Kingfisher CA (PDF, 2.19 MB, 51 pages)Kingfisher EA (PDF, 3.48 MB, 119 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - Installations Removal to shore for recycling or reuse June 2021
Pipelines Trenched and/or buried pipeline sections will be decommissioned in situ. The end of the pipelines will be cut, and additional rock cover will be added to cut ends to reduce snagging risk June 2021
Gaupe Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.86 MB, 47 pages) Gaupe CA (PDF, 1.32 MB, 51 pages)Gaupe EA (PDF, 5.77 MB, 113 pages) A/S Norske Shell - Pipelines Full removal of SSIV, full removal of risers PL2783 and PLU2786. Partial removal of pipelines PL2781, PL2782 and umbilicals PLU2784 and PLU2785. May 2021
PL301 Heimdal to Brae Pipeline Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 7.71 MB, 53 pages) PL301 Heimdal to Brae Pipeline Comparative Assessment (PDF, 6.77 MB, 55 pages)PL301 Heimdal to Brae Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 9.64 MB, 114 pages) Equinor Energy AS - Pipeline Majority of pipeline will be left in situ with rock placement over spans/exposures. 20m surface laid section of pipeline out with the existing trench to be removed and recovered to shore. April 2021
Hunter & Rita Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.1 MB, 44 pages)Hunter & Rita CA (PDF, 1.99 MB, 79 pages)Hunter & Rita EA (PDF, 4.96 MB, 131 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal April 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried pipelines and trenched and buried Flexible Flowlines (Failed) and umbilical will be left in situ. Exposed ends & areas of exposure to be removed & returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal. Local rock placement will be used to mitigate snag hazard from cut ends. Trenched & buried Flexible Flowlines & Umbilicals Rigid Spool pieces and jumpers shall be fully removed and returned to shore for recycling April 2021
LOGGS PR, LOGGS PC, LOGGS PP, LOGGS PA, North Valiant PD, & Associated Pipelines – LDP5 (PDF, 12.2 MB, 99 pages) Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited - Topsides and Jackets Removal to shore for recycling or disposal April 2021
Pipelines Buried pipelines associated with PP will be left in situ and the riser sections of pipelines will be removed to shore for re-use or recycling with the PP and PR jackets. April 2021
Windermere Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.95 MB, 41 pages)Windermere CA (PDF, 802 KB, 34 pages)Windermere ES (PDF, 7.86 MB, 231 pages) INEOS UK SNS Limited - Topsides and Jacket Removal to shore for recycling or disposal March 2021
Pipelines The pipelines will be partially removed, the exposed sections adjacent to the platforms will be removed and recycled or disposed onshore. The exposed ends will be lowered to achieve adequate depth of coverage. The existing buried sections of umbilical will be left in situ. All concrete mattresses and grout bags will be recovered to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal. March 2021
Hewett Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 5.76 MB, 69 pages) Hewett Environmental Appraisal (PDF, 16.9 MB, 134 pages) ENI Hewett Limited - 6 Platforms All 6 platforms will be removed and returned to shore for processing/recycling or disposal March 2021
Buchan & Hannay Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.33 MB, 57 pages)Buchan & Hannay CA (PDF, 3.83 MB, 91 pages)Buchan & Hannay EA (PDF, 8.29 MB, 115 pages) Repsol Sinopec Resources UK Limited - Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be removed to shore for either re-use, disposal or recycling March 2021
Pipelines Buried and stable pipelines will be left in situ. Surface laid pipelines will be removed to shore for re-use, disposal or recycling March 2021
Huntington Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.52 MB, 41 pages)Huntington CA (PDF, 1.86 MB, 62 pages)Huntington EA (PDF, 5.01 MB, 127 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal March 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trench and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal March 2021
Northern Producer FPF and Don SW + W Don riser disconnection (PDF, 4.89 MB, 58 pages) Submitted jointly by Qualimar Shipping Company Limited and EnQuest Heather Limited - Northern Producer FPF Removal for re-use, recycling or disposal March 2021
Mooring and anchor systems, mid water arch and risers Removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal March 2021
Pipeline sections and exposed mattresses within the 500m safety zone Removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal March 2021
Balmoral Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 4.27 MB, 65 pages)Balmoral Area CA (PDF, 2.56 MB, 116 pages)Balmoral Area EA (PDF, 8.03 MB, 196 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Balmoral FPV The Balmoral FPV will be towed to a suitable location for re-sale, re-use, recycling or disposal February 2021
Mooring system The mooring chains will be recovered to the point of burial at the anchor pile February 2021
Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trenched and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Brenda Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.76 MB, 47 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trenched and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Glamis Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.53 MB, 46 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trenched and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Nicol Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.68 MB, 45 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Subsea Installations Subsea installations will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trenched but not backfilled umbilicals will be fully removed by reverse reeling, with deburial, and returned to shore for reuse, recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal. Trenched and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Stirling Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 3.13 MB, 44 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Pipelines Trenched and buried rigid, stable pipelines will be left in situ. Trenched and Buried flexible pipelines, umbilicals, spools and jumpers will be removed to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Topaz Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.21 MB, 31 pages)Topaz CA (PDF, 504 KB, 15 pages)Topaz EA (PDF, 1.22 MB, 37 pages) INEOS UK SNS Limited - Subsea Installations The subsea installation, a Wellhead Protection Structure, will be returned to shore for recycling or appropriate treatment and disposal February 2021
Pipelines (PL2631 and PLU2632) The Trenched and Buried, stable pipeline and umbilical will both be left in situ February 2021
North Cormorant DP (PDF, 2.56 MB, 50 pages) North Cormorant EA (PDF, 7.26 MB, 93 pages) TAQA Bratani Limited - North Cormorant Topsides Removal to shore for recycling or re-use November 2020
Tern Topsides - Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.84 MB, 52 pages) Tern Topsides EA (PDF, 7.03 MB, 91 pages) TAQA Bratani Limited - Tern Topsides Removal to shore for recycling or re-use November 2020
Fulmar & Auk North Preparation Work Scopes Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.53 MB, 35 pages) Repsol Sinopec North Sea Limited - N/A This Decommissioning Programme is specifically for preparation work scopes relating to the Fulmar and Auk North installations November 2020
East Brae Topsides and Braemar Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 3.88 MB, 62 pages) RockRose UKCS8 LLC - East Brae Topsides Removal to shore for re-use or recycling. September 2020
Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling or re-use. September 2020
Pipelines Removal to shore of surface laid pipelines. Trenched and buried pipelines to remain in situ September 2020
Brent Alpha Jacket (PDF, 2.82 MB, 101 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - Brent Alpha Jacket Jacket to be removed to 84.5m below sea level for removal to shore for recycling/disposal. Footings to remain in situ July 2020
Amethyst A1D, A2D, B1D & C1D Topsides (PDF, 2.42 MB, 43 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Topsides Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal July 2020
Anglia Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 2.18 MB, 61 pages) Anglia CA (PDF, 3.74 MB, 49 pages) Anglia EA (PDF, 5.83 MB, 120 pages) Ithaca Energy UK Limited - Topside and Jackets Removal to shore for recycling or re-use June 2020
Pipelines Pipelines will remain in-situ. All tie-in spools for the 8” import line, 12” export line and 3” Methanol line will be completely removed. Partial removal of 6” umbilical. June 2020
Brynhild Pipelines (PDF, 1.98 MB, 50 pages) Lundin Energy Norway AS - Pipelines The trenched and buried sections of pipelines and umbilicals will be decommissioned in situ. The exposed sections will be remediated by either cut with removal to shore, trench and burial or rock cover. Exposed mattresses will be removed to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal. The PLET, support frames and protection covers will be completely removed to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal June 2020
Cormorant Alpha Derrick Structure Removal (PDF, 4.28 MB, 57 pages) TAQA Bratani Limited - Removal of drilling derrick structure and installation of modular drilling rig to facilitate well P&A Removal to Shore of drilling derrick structure June 2020
Cavendish (PDF, 2.4 MB, 40 pages) INEOS UK SNS Limited - Topsides and jacket Removal to shore June 2020
Pipelines Partial removal (buried sections left it situ) June 2020
Banff and Kyle FPSO and FSO Float Off (PDF, 3.45 MB, 39 pages) Banff and Kyle FPSO and FSO Float Off Interim Close Out Report (PDF, 2.31 MB, 36 pages) CNR International (U.K.) Limited. - FPSO and FSO Removal to shore for redeployment. May 2020 Interim Close Out Report approved May 2021
Subsea Installations The STL Buoy and associated mooring lines will be removed to shore for recycling May 2020
Riser Sections Associated riser sections and umbilicals within the water column will be removed to shore for recycling May 2020
Eider Topsides DP (PDF, 2.38 MB, 50 pages) TAQA Bratani Limited - Eider Topsides Removal to shore for recycling or re-use May 2020
Ganymede, Europa, Callisto and NW Bell – LDP3 (PDF, 4.85 MB, 101 pages) Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited - Topside and Jackets Removal to shore for recycling or re-use May 2020
Pipelines NW Bell pipelines will be recovered to shore for re-use or recycling. Ganymede, Europa and Callisto interfield pipelines will be decommissioned in situ May 2020
Ganymede ZD Topsides - LDP3b (PDF, 2.31 MB, 46 pages) Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited - Ganymede Topsides Removal to shore for recycling or re-use April 2020
Huntington FPSO (Voyageur Spirit) (PDF, 1.19 MB, 21 pages) Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - FPSO The Huntington FPSO (Voyageur Spirit) is to be floated off station and redeployed April 2020
Pipelines The risers, PL2805 (ident 2), PL2806 (ident 3), PL2807 (ident 2), PL2808 (ident 2) and PL2809 (ident 2) and mooring system will be removed and taken to shore April 2020
Caister - CDP1a (PDF, 2.93 MB, 49 pages) Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited - Topsides and Jacket and associated sections of pipeline risers attached to the Caister platform Removal to shore for recycling or re-use March 2020
Alma & Galia DPs (PDF, 4.34 MB, 61 pages) EnQuest Heather Limited - FPSO Removal to shore for recycling. March 2020
Subsea Installations Partial removal of the mooring anchor piles. The mooring chain will be cut locally to the mooring pile and buried to 1m below seabed. Removal of manifolds and wellhead protection structures. March 2020
Pipelines Removal to shore. March 2020
Brent Field Pipelines (PDF, 4.05 MB, 130 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - Pipelines Removal to shore for recycling/disposal, trench/backfill, buried pipelines left in situ March 2020
Thistle COS Tanks (PDF, 3.34 MB, 59 pages) EnQuest Heather Limited - Crude Oil Storage Tanks Removal to shore for recycling January 2020
Banff SAL Buoy (PDF, 996 KB, 20 pages) Banff SAL Buoy Interim Close Out Report (PDF, 1.22 MB, 12 pages) CNR International (U.K.) Limited. Decommissioning Programmes submitted by Teekay Petrojarl Floating Production UK Ltd. - Subsea installations Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling November 2019 Interim Close Out Report approved May 2021
Pipelines Part of pipeline to be returned to shore for recycling November 2019
MacCulloch Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 1.36 MB, 40 pages) Chrysaor Production (U.K.) Limited - Subsea installations The anchors will be decommissioned in situ. All other installations will be removed to shore for either re-use or recycling November 2019
Pipelines All buried pipeline, flowlines and umbilicals will be removed for recycling and disposal November 2019
Goldeneye (PDF, 3.41 MB, 53 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - Topsides and Jacket Removal to shore for re-use or recycling November 2019
Pipelines Sections of pipelines from the Goldeneye Platform up to but excluding the main pipeline tie-in flanges – removal to shore for re-use or recycling November 2019
Brae Alpha West Drilling Rig (PDF, 2.2 MB, 24 pages) RockRose Energy UKCS8 LLC - Drilling Rig Removal to shore for recycling or disposal September 2019
South Morecambe DP3/DP4 (PDF, 2.72 MB, 57 pages) Spirit Energy Production UK Limited - Topsides and Jackets Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling September 2019
Pipelines Buried and stable pipelines left in situ, exposed pipeline ends cut and recovered to shore for either re-use or recycling September 2019
Pickerill A&B Installations (PDF, 1.79 MB, 54 pages) Perenco Gas (UK) Limited - Topsides and jackets Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal September 2019
Minke Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 8.56 MB, 59 pages) Neptune E&P UKCS Limited - WHPS Removal to shore for re-use or recycling September 2019
Pipelines buried sections of pipelines to be decommissioned in situ small surface laid sections of pipelines to be removed to shore for re-use or recycling September 2019
Ketch (PDF, 2.65 MB, 60 pages) Schooner (PDF, 4.97 MB, 63 pages) DNO North Sea (ROGB) Limited - Topsides, jackets and subsea installation Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal August 2019
Pipelines Trenched and buried and left in situ August 2019
Juliet (PDF, 6.16 MB, 47 pages) Neptune E&P UKCS Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal August 2019
Pipelines Removal to shore for small surface laid sections of the pipeline and umbilical for either re-use or recycling; buried sections to be left in-situ August 2019
Dunlin Alpha to Cormorant Alpha Pipeline - PL5 (PDF, 4.36 MB, 73 pages)

PL5 Close Out Report (PDF, 4.74 MB, 27 pages)

Fairfield Betula Limited - Pipelines Trenched sections will be left in situ, exposed pipeline ends cut and recovered and severed ends rock dumped July 2019 Close Out Report Approved February 2021
Ninian Northern Platform (PDF, 2.34 MB, 70 pages) CNR International (U.K.) Limited - Large Steel Platform Topsides and jacket to top of footings to be removed to shore for recycling/disposal. Footings to remain in situ. June 2019
Nevis N11 WHPS (PDF, 1.66 MB, 26 pages) Apache Beryl I Limited - Nevis N11 WHPS Removal to shore for re-use or recycling June 2019
Dunlin Alpha Topsides (PDF, 4.97 MB, 44 pages) Fairfield Betula Limited - Dunlin Alpha Topsides Removal to shore for recycling or disposal May 2019
Hewett (PDF, 1.5 MB, 21 pages) Hewett Vent Stack Close Out Report (PDF, 595 KB, 11 pages) Eni Hewett Limited ENI UK Limited - Vent Stack (2 x 19m pipes) & other preparatory works on 48/29B Platform & PL84 Removal to shore for recycling or disposal April 2019,Close Out Report accepted September 2021
Pickerill A & B (PDF, 1.26 MB, 21 pages) Perenco Gas (UK) Limited - Telecommunication towers, sub-cellar deck equipment, appurtenances, caissons, associated tanks and lift pumps, supply hoses, a pipeline riser emergency shutdown valve and tertiary steelwork Removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal March 2019
Curlew B, C and D (PDF, 2.4 MB, 61 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - FPSO Removal to shore for recycling/disposal March 2019
Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal March 2019
Pipelines Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling; buried pipelines to be left in-situ March 2019
Viking Platforms, Vixen and associated Pipelines (VDP2) (PDF, 33.3 MB, 84 pages) ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited - Viking Satellites KD, LD, AR, Viking Bravo Hub BA, BC, BP, BD and Vixen sub-sea tieback Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal January 2019
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ January 2019
Victor (VDP3) (PDF, 21.1 MB, 55 pages) ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited - Victor Platform and subsea installation Removal to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal January 2019
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ January 2019
Tyne South Installations (PDF, 1.83 MB, 42 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Topsides, jacket and subsea installation Removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal January 2019
Guinevere Installation (PDF, 2.05 MB, 43 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Topsides and jacket Removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal January 2019
Beatrice Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 4.45 MB, 88 pages) Repsol Sinopec Resources UK Limited - Beatrice AP Topsides; AD, Bravo and Charlie Platforms and AD Drilling Template Removal to shore for re-use/recycling January 2019
Pipelines Buried pipelines will be left in situ. Remediation for any exposed sections. January 2019
Bains Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 2.57 MB, 36 pages) Spirit Energy Production UK Limited - Subsea Installation Removal to shore for re-use/recycling January 2019
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ January 2019
Jacky (PDF, 2.34 MB, 52 pages) Ithaca Energy (UK) Limited - Wellhead Platform and Midline Tee Structure Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling October 2018
Pipelines Pipelines are trenched and buried and will be left in situ October 2018
Brae Bravo Topsides, Flare Bridge, Flare Tower and Flare Jacket and Substructure (PDF, 4.9 MB, 52 pages) Marathon Oil UK LLC - Brae Bravo Topsides, Flare Bridge, Flare Tower and Flare Jacket/Substructure Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling August 2018
Brent Alpha, Bravo and Charlie Topsides (PDF, 3.34 MB, 81 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - Brent Alpha, Brent Bravo and Brent Charlie Topsides Removal to shore for recycling/disposal August 2018
Stirling A33 WHPS Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.13 MB, 27 pages)

Stirling WHPS Close Out Report (PDF, 2.57 MB, 15 pages)

Premier Oil E&P UK Limited - Subsea installation Removal to shore for recycling May 2018
Ann and Alison (PDF, 2.98 MB, 60 pages) Spirit Energy North Sea Limited - Subsea installations Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling April 2018
Pipelines Buried and stable pipelines left in situ. Surface laid pipelines removed to shore for re-use or recycling April 2018
Saturn (Annabel) (PDF, 2.49 MB, 47 pages) Spirit Energy North Sea Limited - Subsea installations Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling April 2018
Pipelines Buried and stable pipelines left in situ. Surface laid pipelines removed to shore for re-use or recycling April 2018
Audrey (PDF, 2.87 MB, 58 pages) Spirit Energy North Sea Limited - 2 fixed platforms Removal of topsides and jackets to shore for recycling or disposal April 2018
Pipelines Buried and stable pipelines decommissioned in situ. Surface laid pipelines removed to shore for re-use or recycling April 2018
Rev Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 12 MB, 42 pages) Repsol Norge AS - Pipelines Fully buried and stable pipeline to be left in situ. All other pipelines to be removed. All mattresses on pipelines to be removed April 2018
Markham ST-1 (PDF, 2.39 MB, 49 pages)

Markham ST-1 Close Out Report (PDF, 6.19 MB, 68 pages)

Centrica Production Nederland B.V. Spirit Energy Nederland B.V. Fixed Platform Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling February 2018, Close Out Report Received July 2021
Pipelines Two pipelines to be decommissioned in situ February 2018, Close Out Report Received July 2021
Osprey (PDF, 3.92 MB, 68 pages)

Osprey Close Out Report (PDF, 1.71 MB, 34 pages)

Fairfield Fagus Limited - Subsea Installation Removed and recovered to shore for recycling/disposal December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Pipelines Full removal with the exception of the Bundles, Umbilical Risers within the Dunlin Alpha Concrete Gravity Based Structure or those trenched and rock dumped December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Merlin (PDF, 2.97 MB, 56 pages)

Merlin Close Out Report (PDF, 1.47 MB, 27 pages)

Fairfield Fagus Limited - Subsea Installation Removed and recovered to shore for recycling/disposal December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Pipelines Full removal with the exception of trenched and rock dumped Pipelines and Umbilicals and Umbilical Riser within the Dunlin Alpha Concrete Gravity Based Structure December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Dunlin Fuel Gas Import (DFGI) and Dunlin Power Import (DPI) (PDF, 3.48 MB, 54 pages)

DFGI/DPI Close Out Report (PDF, 2.19 MB, 30 pages)

Fairfield Fagus Limited - Subsea Installation Removed and recovered to shore for recycling/disposal December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Pipelines Full removal with the exception of trenched and buried Pipelines and Rigid Riser and Riser Cable within the Dunlin Alpha Concrete Gravity Based Structure December 2017 Close Out Report Approved January 2021
Viking Satellites CD, DD, ED, GD, HD Pipelines (PDF, 6.77 MB, 32 pages) ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited - Pipelines All pipelines and associated mattresses to remain in situ November 2017
LOGGS Satellites Vulcan UR, Viscount VO, Vampire OD - LDP1 (PDF, 17.5 MB, 61 pages) ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited - 3 x fixed platforms - Vulcan UR, Viscount VO and Vampire OD Removal to shore of topsides and jackets for recycling/disposal November 2017
Pipelines All pipelines and associated mattresses to remain in situ November 2017
Leman BH Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 4.66 MB, 46 pages)

Leman BH Close Out Report (PDF, 1.71 MB, 25 pages)

Shell U.K. Limited - 1 x platform Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling April 2017 Close Out Report Approved March 2019
Ettrick and Blackbird (PDF, 2.1 MB, 62 pages) Nexen Petroleum UK Limited - FPSO Removal for re-use at different location March 2017
Subsea Equipment Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling March 2017
Pipelines Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling; buried pipelines to be left in-situ March 2017
Ann A4 Decommissioning Programme (PDF, 1.37 MB, 29 pages) Centrica North Sea Limited - A4 Wellhead Protection Structure Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling February 2017
Janice James & Affleck (PDF, 3.8 MB, 115 pages) Maersk Oil UK Limited - FPSO Removal for recycling September 2016
Subsea Equipment Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling September 2016
Pipelines Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling; buried pipelines to be left in-situ September 2016
Athena Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 3.88 MB, 70 pages) Ithaca Energy (UK) Limited - FPSO Removal for re-use at different location September 2016
Subsea Equipment Removal to shore for either re-use or recycling September 2016
Pipelines All 32 pipeline to be removed and returned to shore for re-use or recycling September 2016
Viking Platforms (PDF, 3.53 MB, 40 pages) ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited - 5 x fixed platforms Viking CD, DD, ED, GD, HD Removal to shore of topsides and jackets for recycling/disposal September 2016
Leadon (PDF, 1.71 MB, 53 pages) Maersk Oil North Sea UK Limited - FPSO Removal for re-use at different location March 2016
Subsea Removal of 2 x bundle towheads and mid-line structure to shore for disposal; removal of 2 x drill centres to shore for disposal March 2016
Pipelines 2 x Pipeline bundles to be left in-situ, partial removal of gas import pipeline March 2016
Harding STL (PDF, 2.61 MB, 73 pages)

Harding STL Close-Out Report (PDF, 1.62 MB, 26 pages)

TAQA Bratani Limited - Harding Submerged Turret Loading (STL) System Harding Submerged Turret Loading (STL) System to be replaced by new Offshore Loading System. STL to be removed to shore for recycling/disposal and shuttle tanker mooring and loading buoy interfaces returned to owner 2015
Thames Area – Horne & Wren (PDF, 1.57 MB, 48 pages) Tullow Oil SK Limited - 1x fixed platform Removal of topsides and jackets to shore for recycling/disposal November 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ November 2015
Thames Area – Orwell (PDF, 828 KB, 42 pages) Tullow Oil SK Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal November 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ November 2015
Thames Area – Wissey (PDF, 1.26 MB, 43 pages) Tullow Oil SK Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal November 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ November 2015
Thames Area – Thames Complex (PDF, 15.9 MB, 76 pages) Perenco UK Limited - 3x fixed platforms Removal of topsides and jackets to shore for recycling/disposal October 2015
Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal October 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ October 2015
Thames Area – Gawain (PDF, 3.8 MB, 47 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal October 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ October 2015
Thames Area – Arthur (PDF, 4.41 MB, 46 pages) Perenco UK Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal October 2015
Pipelines To remain buried in situ October 2015
Brent - Brent Delta Topside (PDF, 3.55 MB, 72 pages)

Brent Delta Topside Close Out Report (PDF, 4.42 MB, 53 pages)

Shell U.K. Limited - Brent Delta Topside Removal of topside to shore for recycling and disposal July 2015, Close Out Report approved February 2020
Rose Decommissioning Programmes (PDF, 2.87 MB, 42 pages)

Rose Close Out Report (PDF, 3.31 MB, 36 pages)

Centrica Resources Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal May 2015 Close Out Report Approved October 2018
Pipelines Removal of sections of un-trenched pipelines; trenched pipelines decommissioned in situ May 2015 Close Out Report Approved October 2018
Stamford (PDF, 2.71 MB, 39 pages)

Stamford Close Out Report (PDF, 2.66 MB, 36 pages)

Centrica North Sea Gas Limited - Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal April 2015 Close Out Report approved February 2019
Pipelines Removal of sections of un-trenched pipelines; trenched pipelines decommissioned in situ April 2015 Close Out Report approved February 2019
Murchison (PDF, 2.37 MB, 70 pages) CNR - Large Steel Platform Topsides and jacket to top of footings to be removed to shore for recycling/disposal. Footings to remain in situ August 2014
Pipelines Export pipeline decommissioned in situ with remedial rock placement.

Infield Flowlines to be removed for recycling/disposal.
August 2014
Rubie & Renee (PDF, 2.47 MB, 50 pages)

Rubie Renee Decommissioning Close Out Report (PDF, 9.98 MB, 66 pages)

Endeavour Energy UK Limited Hess Limited Subsea Installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal April 2014, Close Out Report accepted September 2021
Pipelines Selective Recovery April 2014, Close Out Report accepted September 2021
Miller (PDF, 6.57 MB, 198 pages) BP Exploration (Alpha) Limited   Large Steel Platform Footings to remain in place, steel topsides and jacket to top of footings to be removed to shore December 2013
Schiehallion & Loyal Phase One (PDF, 1.84 MB, 60 pages)

Schiehallion & Loyal Phase One Close Out Report (PDF, 1010 KB, 22 pages)

Britoil Limited - Schiehallion FPSO Removal for potential re-use 2013, Close Out Report Approved May 2019
Pipelines Recovery where possible. Production flowlines to be left in situ 2013, Close Out Report Approved May 2019
IVRR - decommissoning programme (PDF, 1.57 MB, 102 pages)

IVRR Close Out Report (PDF, 4.74 MB, 35 pages)

Hess limited - FPSO Removal for re-use at different location 2013
Subsea installations Removal to shore for recycling/disposal 2013
Pipelines Selective recovery 2013
Camelot (PDF, 488 KB, 39 pages)

Camelot Close out report (PDF, 2.27 MB, 41 pages)

Energy Resource Technology (UK) Limited - Small Steel Platform Removal to shore for recycling / disposal 2012
Pipelines Pipelines decommissioned in situ 2012
Fife, Flora, Fergus, Angus: decommissioning programme (PDF, 8.36 MB, 135 pages)

FFFA Close Out Report (PDF, 1.49 MB, 33 pages)

Hess Limited - FPSO Removed for re-use at different location 2012
Subsea installations Removal to shore for recycling / disposal 2012
Pipelines Full removal of un-trenched pipelines; trenched pipelines decommissioned in situ 2012
Don Britoil Public Limited Company - Subsea installation Removal to shore for recycling / disposal 2011
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ with selective recovery 2011
Welland

Welland Close Out Report (PDF, 7.42 MB, 130 pages)

Perenco UK Limited - Small Steel Platform Removal for re-use outside of UK waters 2010, Close Out Report Approved October 2020
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ with selective recovery 2010, Close Out Report Approved October 2020
Tristan NW

Close out report

Silverstone Energy Limited Bridge Energy UK Limited Subsea installation Removal to shore for recycling 2010; close-out report received January 2011
Pipelines Production pipeline with piggy-backed umbilical - leave in situ; jumpers, spool pieces and associated pipeline equipment - remove to shore for re-use or recycling 2010; close-out report received January 2011
Shelley

Close out report

Premier Oil - Sevan Voyageur FPSO Tow away for future use at another location 2010; close-out report received February 2012
Manifold and Wellhead Remove to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal 2010; close-out report received February 2012
Pipelines Production pipeline - leave in situ; umbilical - remove in sections 2010; close-out report received February 2012
Kittiwake SAL Export System

Close out report

Venture North Sea Oil Limited - Kittiwake SAL Assembly SAL Assembly - removal to shore for re-use. Revision to approved decommissioning programme: Completion of the removal of the SAL Assembly extended to 31 July 2012 2009; close-out report received July 2012
Pipelines Pipeline - flexible flowline removed to shore for re-use 2009; close-out report received July 2012
MCP-01

Close out report

Total E& P UK Limited - Manifold & Compression Platform Permit granted for the disposal in-situ of the concrete substructure; topsides to be removed to shore for re-use, recycling or disposal 2008; close-out report received March 2013
Kittiwake Loading Buoy Venture North Sea Oil Limited - Exposed Location Single Buoy Mooring System (ELSBM) Removals to shore for recycling or disposal 2008
Linnhe (PDF, 2.25 MB, 66 pages)</p>Linnhe Close Out Report (PDF, 1000 KB, 22 pages) Mobil North Sea LLC - Wellhead Protection Structure Removal to shore. Revision to approved decommissioning programme: completion of the removal of the Wellhead Protection Structure extended to 30 June 2010 2008; year of revised approval: 2010
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ; pipeline sections outside trenches removed to shore. Revision to approved decommissioning programme: completion of the abandonment of the pipelines extended to 30 June 2010 2008; year of revised approval: 2010
Indefatigable (Shell) (PDF, 11.6 MB, 224 pages)</p>Close Out Report (PDF, 2.47 MB, 64 pages) Shell U.K. Limited - 6 x fixed steel platforms Removal to shore 2007
Pipelines 2 x hose bundles removal to shore; 5 x infield + export decommissioned in situ 2007
NW Hutton: decommissioning programme (PDF, 14.9 MB, 320 pages)
Close Out Report (PDF, 2.52 MB, 32 pages)
Amoco (U.K.) Exploration Company - now a subsidiary of BP plc - Large Steel Platform Footings to remain in place, steel topsides and jacket to top of footings to be removed to shore 2006
Pipelines Decommissioned in situ 2006
Ardmore British American Offshore Limited - Mobile Jack-Up Rig Re-use 2005
Ardmore Ugland Nordic Shipping AS - Single Anchor Loading Systems Re-use/removal to shore 2005
Pipelines Re-use 2005
Ardmore Acorn Oil & Gas Limited - Subsea equipment including guide frame Removal to shore 2005
Brent Shell - Brent Flare Removals to shore for recycling and disposal 2004
Beatrice Talisman Energy (UK) Limited - Fixed Steel Platforms Re-use 2004
Forbes and Gordon Infield Pipelines BHP Billiton - Infield Pipelines Decommission in situ - retrench any area of pipeline with less than 0.4m depth of cover 2003; close-out report received May 2005
Frigg TP1, QP & CDP1

Close out report

Total E&P Norge AS - Treatment Platform 1 (TP1), Quarters Platform (QP) and Concrete Drilling Platform 1 (CDP1) Concrete substructures to remain in place; concrete topsides to be removed to shore; steel installations to be removed to shore; infield pipelines to be removed to shore 2003
Durward and Dauntless Amerada Hess - Pipelines Decommissioned in situ 2002
Hutton Kerr-McGee - Tension Leg Platform Re-use 2002; close-out report received July 2004
Pipelines 1 x removal to shore; 1 x decommissioned in situ (with future monitoring programme) 2002; close-out report received July 2004
Camelot CB ExxonMobil - Fixed Steel Platform Re-use or removal to shore for recycling. Revision to approved decommissioning option: removal to shore for dismantling and recycling 2001. Year of revised approval: 2002
Blenheim and Bladon Talisman - FPSO Re-use 2000
Pipelines Removal to shore 2000
Durward and Dauntless Amerada Hess - FPSO Re-use 2000
Subsea Facilities Removal to shore 2000
Maureen and Moira Phillips - Large Steel Gravity Platform Removal to shore for re-use or recycling 2000
Concrete Loading Column Removal to shore for re-use or recycling 2000
Pipelines 2 x removal to shore;1 x decommissioned in situ 2000
Brent Spar Shell - Oil Storage and Loading Facility Re-use as part of quay extension. Revision to approved decommissioning option: Brent Spar Anchor Blocks - removal to shore for reuse, recycling or disposal 1998 Year of revised approval: 2004
Donan BP - FPSO Re-use 1998
Fulmar SALM Shell - Single Anchor Leg Mooring Buoy Removal to shore 1998
16” Pipeline Decommissioned in situ 1998
Emerald MSR - FPSO Re-use 1996
Pipeline Decommissioned in situ 1996
Frigg FP Elf Norge TotalFinaElf Norge Flare Column Removal to shore 1996
Leman BK Shell - Fixed Steel Platform Removal to shore 1996
Staffa Lasmo - Pipelines Removal to shore 1996
Viking AC, AD, AP & FD Conoco - 4 x Fixed Steel Platform Removal to shore 1996
Esmond CP & CW BHP - 2 x Fixed Steel Platform Removal to shore 1995
Gordon BW BHP - Fixed Steel Platform Removal to shore 1995
Angus Amerada Hess - Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessel Re-use 1993
Forbes AW Hamilton BHP Fixed Steel Platform Removal to shore 1993
Argyll, Duncan and Innes Hamilton BHP Floating Production, Facility (FPF) Removal to shore 1992
Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring (CALM) Buoy Removal to shore 1992
Pipelines Removal to shore 1992
Blair Sun Oil AGIP Pipelines 1 x Re-use; 1 x Decommissioned in situ 1992
Crawford Hamilton Oil BHP Floating Production, Facility (FPF) Removal to shore 1991
Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring (CALM) Buoy Removal to shore 1991
Subsea Facilities Removal to shore 1991
Piper Alpha Occidental Talisman Fixed Steel Platform Toppling 1988

Notification of disused pipelines

(the DPN form to take pipeline(s) out of use is currently being updated. A copy can be made available on request at odu@beis.gov.uk)

During the course of a field’s life, pipelines/sections of pipelines may be taken out of use, e.g. due to corrosion, problems with reservoir pressure, damage to the pipeline, etc. When this happens, under the Petroleum Act 1998 the Secretary of State has the option of immediately calling for a full decommissioning programme. This is not always considered an appropriate option however, and so it has been agreed consideration will be given to handling suitable pipelines, under an informal decommissioning regime, thereby deferring a formal programme until the end of the field’s life.

If a formal decommissioning programme is not immediately deemed suitable, details of the out of use pipeline(s) will be circulated to other government departments for comment. Following this, OPRED will decide one of the following:

  • we are content with the proposals for monitoring and maintaining the out-of-use pipeline
  • we request additional information or further remedial action
  • we request a formal decommissioning programme

The Interim Pipeline Regime is intended to ensure out of use lines do not pose a risk to other users of the sea or the environment and that they are covered by an appropriate surveying and maintenance regime from the point when they are taken out of use until approval of the formal decommissioning programme, which is usually at the end of field life. It should be noted that any interim solution should not prejudice the final decommissioning options for that line, including complete removal. The department expects operators to submit details of out of use pipelines/sections of a pipeline as soon as they are taken out of use.

Operators are reminded that any works that are proposed on any pipelines under the Pipeline Works Authorisation regime, as per their Terms and Conditions of the PWA, must have a legal consent in place before works can commence which includes but is not exclusive to any proposed decommissioning works. Consents are issued by the Oil & Gas Authority and operators are requested to email consents@ogauthority.co.uk on any queries that they may have relating to legal consents. Further guidance can also be found on the Oil & Gas Authority website.

Once the necessary legal consent has been issued by OGA, Consents & Authorisations Section, Operators are to email a completed DPN form to odu@beis.gov.uk.

If you are an operator, aware of any out of use pipelines that have not been referred to the department, please submit a completed DPN form at your earliest convenience.

Following confirmation a pipeline has been accepted under the Interim Pipeline Regime, the Offshore Decommissioning Unit will continue to monitor the condition of the pipeline by asking the Operator to confirm the status of the pipeline remains unchanged following future surveys.

Further information

A list of all installations on the UKCS and their current status is available from the OSPAR Website

At the first ministerial meeting of the Commission for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North East Atlantic (OSPAR) in 1998, a binding decision was agreed that set rules for the disposal of offshore installations at sea. Under the decision the dumping and leaving wholly or partly in place of offshore installations is prohibited. Decision 98/3 recognises it may be difficult to remove the ‘footings’ of large steel jackets weighing more than 10,000 and concrete installations. As a result there are derogations for these categories of installations if the internationally agreed assessment and consultation process shows leaving them in place is justifiable.

OPRED has utilised decommissioning programme templates for derogation and non-derogation projects. These templates include all required content as detailed in Annex C of the guidance notes. There are also templates available which are currently being trialled for more specific and small scale decommissioning activity including rig reactivation and removal of a single Wellhead Protection Structure. Operator’s should discuss all individual cases with OPRED who will advise of the appropriate template.

A Standard Decommissioning Programme Template (Non-Derogation Cases) (PDF, 1.03 MB, 34 pages) is available - (November 2018).

A Standard Decommissioning Programme Template (Derogation Cases) (PDF, 1.11 MB, 37 pages) is also available (November 2018).

A word version of these templates can also be requested from OPRED. Please email odu@beis.gov.uk for further details.

Cost recovery

OPRED will charge a fee in respect of offshore (oil and gas) installations and pipelines decommissioning programmes under the Petroleum Act 1998. Guidance, including the indicative fee structure, is available in Guidance on charging a fee for offshore (oil and gas) installations and pipelines under the Petroleum Act 1998 (PDF, 308 KB, 9 pages)

Published 23 January 2013
Last updated 37 March 2022 + show all updates
  1. New DPs out to consultation

  2. wenlock DP approval re-added appears to have been deleted in error

  3. Consultation DP

  4. Approved DP

  5. Approved DP

  6. DP approval

  7. Draft programme for consultation

  8. DP approval

  9. Consultation DP added

  10. DP approved

  11. Causeway and Fionn DP consultation

  12. DP approval

  13. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  14. Decommissioning Programmes added for Public Consultation

  15. Acceptance of Close Out Report

  16. DP Consultation

  17. COR accepted

  18. Consultation DP added

  19. ensign DP approved

  20. Consultation DP

  21. markham close out report added

  22. Consultation DP

  23. DP approval

  24. Cost recovery consultation impact assessment added

  25. DP Approval

  26. DP approval

  27. newly approved DP

  28. Decommissioning programme for consultation

  29. Consultation draft DP added

  30. Edited 'Overview' section to publish details of consultation on proposed changes to fee charging regime.

  31. interim CORs added for Banff FPSO and SAL buoy DPS

  32. approval of Gaupe DP

  33. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  34. DP approved

  35. Adding an approved DP

  36. Consultation DP

  37. DP approved

  38. Approved Decommissioning Programme

  39. Decommissioning Programmes for consultation

  40. DP approved

  41. DP approved

  42. DP approved

  43. COR added

  44. Approved DPs added

  45. Close Out Reports Approved

  46. Adding A Decommissioning Programme which is out to Public Consultation.

  47. Consultation DPs added

  48. Consultation DP added

  49. Consultation DP added

  50. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  51. Decommissioning Programme Approved

  52. Approval of preparatory works

  53. Consultation DP added

  54. Accepted Close Out Report added

  55. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  56. Five new DPs out to consultation

  57. A new DP is out to public consultation

  58. draft DP added

  59. Decommissioning Programmes for consultation

  60. Approval of A DP and Derogation

  61. Draft decommissioning programme for consultation

  62. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  63. document replaced with updated version

  64. Decommissioning Programme Approval

  65. Approved Decommissioning Programme

  66. Consultation DP added

  67. DP has been approved

  68. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  69. A DP has been added for public consultation

  70. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  71. Approved DP added

  72. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  73. approval of Eider topsides DP

  74. A Decommissioning Programme has been approved

  75. consultation DP added

  76. Approval of a DP

  77. Approved DP

  78. Approval of a DP

  79. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  80. Approved DP

  81. Decommissioning Programme now approved

  82. Consultation DPs

  83. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  84. CoR added to website

  85. DP approval

  86. Huntington Consultation DP added

  87. New Decommissioning Programmes out to consultation.

  88. New DP out to consultation

  89. New DP out to consultation

  90. Decommissioning Programmes for consultation

  91. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  92. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  93. Approved of Banff SAL Buoy DP

  94. Consultation of Cavendish Decommissioning Programme

  95. MacCulloch DP approved

  96. New approved DP

  97. Consultation of Ensign

  98. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  99. Approval of South Morecambe DP3/DP4 Decommissioning Programmes

  100. Pickerill installations DP approved

  101. Minke DP approved

  102. Banff SAL buoy DP for consultation

  103. Addition of two approved decommissioning programmes

  104. Added the approved Juliet DP to the website

  105. PL5 approved

  106. NNP approved

  107. Decommissioning Programme for consultation

  108. Consultation of MacCulloch Field Decommissioning Programmes

  109. Revised CAs for Brae A, Brae B and East Brae

  110. Approval of Nevis N11 WHPS Decommissioning Programme

  111. Change of email to a generic one rather than a personal email.

  112. Schiehallion & Loyal Phase One Close Out Report Approved

  113. Approval of the Dunlin Alpha Topsides Decommissioning Programme

  114. Update of the content of the DP

  115. Approval of Hewett Vent Stack DP

  116. consultation closed

  117. Consultation DP and supporting documents for PL5

  118. Minke and Juliet consultation DPs published

  119. Addition of Close Out Report

  120. New Approved Programme

  121. New programme for consultation

  122. Publishing approved Curlew DP

  123. Morecambe DPs published for consultation

  124. Added a CoR

  125. Addition of Close Out Report

  126. Approved DPs for VDP2 and VDP3 added

  127. Addition of approved DPs for Tyne South Installations and Guinevere Installation

  128. Addition of approved decommissioning programme

  129. Approval of a Decommissioning Programme

  130. Addition of Brent Delta Close Out Report

  131. Addition of 2 decommissioning programmes for consultation

  132. Update decommissioning templates added

  133. Guidance document was updated and uploaded

  134. Adding Goldeneye DP for consultation.

  135. Jacky Decommissioning Programmes Approved

  136. Approval of Close out Report

  137. Approval of Decommissioning Programme

  138. VDP2 and VDP3 consultation draft Decommissioning Programmes added

  139. Approval of Brent Alpha, Bravo and Charlie Topsides Decommissioning Programme

  140. Offshore Oil and Gas Decommissioning Programme out to consultation

  141. Addition of a new decommissioning programme for consultation

  142. Tyne South and Guinevere Installation Decommissioning Programmes published for consultation

  143. Addition of Curlew DPs, CA and EIA for Public Consultation.

  144. Decommissioning Programme Approved

  145. Updated Offshore decommissioning guidance has been added

  146. Ann & Alison, Saturn (Annabel) and Audrey DPs have been approved

  147. Changed document to final version

  148. A decommissioning programme has been approved

  149. Approved Markham DP

  150. Bains Documents Added

  151. Updated Environmental Guidance on Decommissioning

  152. Jacky DP Consultation

  153. Draft Consultation Decommissioning Programme uploaded

  154. Updated guidance for Offshore Decommissioning on website for feedback

  155. Addition of approved DPs

  156. Approved DPs added

  157. Saturn Annabel, Audrey and LDP1 Programmes for public consultation

  158. DPN form corrected

  159. generic email address added and DPN form updated (with generic email address)

  160. Ann and Alison DP's and associated documents added for public consultation

  161. Fairfield Fagus Limited's Dunlin Fuel Gas Import and Power Import, Merlin and Osprey Decommissioning Documents uploaded

  162. Brae Area DPs and associated documents available for consultation

  163. Harding STL Close Out Report added

  164. Disused Pipeline Notification Form revised - 03 May 17

  165. Leman BH Decommissioning Programme approved

  166. Approval of Ettrick and Blackbird DP

  167. Ninian North Platform documents published for public consultation A4 Programme approved

  168. Brent Decommissioning Programmes published for consultation

  169. IVRR Close Out Report added

  170. Ann A4 Installation Decommissioning Programme added for consultation

  171. Approved Decommissioning Programmes added

  172. Atlantic and Cromarty Draft Decommissioning Programmes Consultation

  173. references of DECC amended to BEIS (including DPN form)

  174. Janice, James & Affleck Fields - Draft programmes under consideration (added)

  175. Markham ST-1 Decommissioning Programmes - (added)

  176. Oil & Gas: Update Notification of Disused Pipelines

  177. Oil & Gas: Update Table of draft decommissioning programmes under consideration.

  178. Leadon Decommissioning Programmes - (added)

  179. Notification of Disused Pipelines form - (updated)

  180. Harding STL approved decommissioning programme - (added)

  181. Thames Area - Horne & Wren, Orwell and Wissey approved decommissioning programmes - (added)

  182. Fife, Flora, Fergus, Angus: decommissioning programme FFFA Close Out Report - (added)

  183. Thames Area – Thames Complex, Gawain & Arthur - Approved decommissioning programmes - (added)

  184. Viking Satellites CD,DD,ED,GD,HD draft decommissioning programmes under consideration - (added)

  185. Oil and Gas: Updated document for Harding STL Decommissioning Programme

  186. Oil and Gas: Updated “Table of approved decommissioning programmes” table.

  187. Leman BH draft decommissioning programme - (added)

  188. Oil and Gas: Addition of Brent field to approved decommissioning programme

  189. Oil and gas: Rose approved decommissioning programme - (added)

  190. Decommissioning - Leadon draft programme, follow up consultation - (added)

  191. Oil and gas: Stamford decommissioning programme - (added)

  192. Oil and gas: Rose Field decommissioning programmes - (added)

  193. Oil and gas: Brent – Brent Delta Topside draft decommissioning programme - (added)

  194. Oil and Gas: Addition of Stamford Field to decommissioning programmes table

  195. Oil and Gas: Updated the disused pipeline notification form

  196. Oil and gas: Decommissioning - Streamlined Decommissioning Programme Template (Derogation Cases) - (added)

  197. Oil and gas: NW Hutton close out report - (added)

  198. Oil and gas: Decommissioning draft prgrams - Thames - (added)

  199. Oil and gas: Indefatigable (Shell) close out report - (added)

  200. Oil and gas: Streamlined Decommissioning Programme Template (Non-Derogation Cases) - (updated)

  201. Oil and gas: Murchison approved decommissioning programme - (added)

  202. Oil and gas: Rubie & Renee - Approved decommissioning programme - (added)

  203. Oil and gas: Decommisiioning Linhe close out report - (added)

  204. Oil and gas: Streamlined Decommissioning Programme Template (Non Derogation Cases) - updated

  205. Oil and gas: Leadon Draft Decommissioning Programme - added

  206. Oil and gas: Miller decommissioning programme - (added)

  207. Oil and gas: Rubie/Renee Draft Decommissioning Programme - (added)

  208. Camelot close out report - added

  209. Added Murchison draft decommissioning programme

  210. Added streamlined decommissioning programme template

  211. Re-created table, added H2's and anchors

  212. First published.