Preliminary planning application for UK plant

02 December 2010

EdF Energy has submitted a planning application proposing the start of preliminary works in conjunction with its planned new nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point C.

 

Hinkley Point A and B (Richard Baker)

Hinkley Point A and B (Image: Richard Baker)

Local planning authority West Somerset Council says it is currently checking the completeness of the application before making it publicly available. The application relates mainly to earthworks to make a series of terrraces in preparation for the construction of two EPR reactors at the site, including the removal of a number of hedgerows as well as some woodland and grassland. Drainage works, the erection of fencing, re-routing of existing underground services and the provision of a site access road and internal roads ready for future construction traffic are also included in the application.
 
The company says it is also planning soon to make an application for permission to build a temporary jetty at the site, to enable bulk materials to be unloaded there.
 
EdF Energy director of planning and external affairs for nuclear new build Richard Mayson described the application as a key stage in the project, which would be important in facilitating the construction of the power station itself. "A key feature of these works is that they are designed to support the timetable for the future construction of the power station, ensuring that disruption to local communities is kept to minimum and will support our aim of generating low carbon electricity from our first new reactor at Hinkley Point in 2018," he said.
 
Two AGR reactors currently operated by EdF at Hinkley Point B are scheduled for closure in 2016. Hinkley Point A, which comprised two Magnox reactors, was closed in 2000 after 35 years of service and is now being decommissioned.
 
EdF Energy has undertaken to reinstate the site should main construction consent not be secured.
 
Researched and written

by World Nuclear News