Part of the wider "Invictus" decarbonisation programme, the Pickle Line is one of several major investments supporting the transition to lower-emission steelmaking alongside the new electric arc furnace, continuous caster upgrades and the life extension of the hot rolling mill.

Providing an update on progress, Mills Programme Lead Andrew McGregor said significant groundwork has already been completed, including demolition of the former Batch Annealing process bay, removal of miles of cabling and excavation down to basement level.

Although much of the work remains hidden below ground level, Andrew stressed that extensive preparation is essential to ensure installation runs smoothly when major equipment begins arriving later this year.

The new Pickle Line will stretch the full length of the old Batch Annealing bay in the Cold Mill, and incorporate state-of-the-art technology, including a next-generation laser welder enabling the line to continuously process the full range of steel grades.

Despite challenges presented by existing infrastructure, groundwater and recent fire damage in adjacent areas, the project remains on track.

Over the next year, the site will be transformed as civil engineering work gives way to structural steel erection and major mechanical and electrical installations.

In parallel, the hot rolling mill life extension - replacing the coil box and crop shear is progressing well, with teams carrying out complex enabling works around a live rolling operation that continues to supply customers.

Andrew added: "It doesn't look like a lot of work has happened, but actually a vast amount has taken place to set us up for a slick installation.

WATCH: Andrew McGregor explains the progress being made on the life extension of the Hot Rolling Mill, and the construction of a brand new Pickle Line as part of Project Invictus at Port Talbot.