Introduction
EDF Energy are building two nuclear reactors, known as Hinkley Point C (HPC), at Hinkley Point on the West Somerset Coast. These are the first nuclear reactors to be built in the UK for 20 years and once in operation, will provide low carbon electricity for 6 million homes over a 60-year period. This represents approximately 7% of the UK’s electricity needs.
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Dillington Vision
While the project was in the early stages of design, Somerset Council and NNB GenCo (EDF Energy) signed a Planning Performance Agreement (PDF 720KB) which embodied the collective, overarching vision for the development.
The themes in the Agreement were refined during the planning process to form the Dillington Vision (PDF 108KB). They are a set of objectives focused on the following areas of economic development:
- education
- employment and skills
- a low carbon future
- housing and community wellbeing
Their aim is to ensure that Somerset gains the greatest possible benefits from the Hinkley Point C development.
Site Preparation Works
Planning consent to prepare the site at Hinkley Point for the construction of the nuclear power plant was granted by Somerset Council through the Town and Country Planning Act process, on 27 January 2012.
Site preparation works concluded on 16 June 2016.
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project
The construction of the nuclear power plant and the Associated Development is categorised as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). Unlike most planning applications, which are decided by the Local Planning Authority under the Town and Country Planning Act, applications for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects are submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. Independent inspectors are then appointed to examine the application and make recommendations.
Following the examination, a recommendation is made to the Secretary of State who will decide whether to grant or refuse permission. If permission is granted it will take the form of a Development Consent Order (DCO).
The Development Consent Order for Hinkley Point C and its associated developments was granted on 19 March 2013. Before approval was given, the proposals were examined and Somerset Council, along with many other organisations, took part in the consultation and examination process.
Local Planning Authorities, such as Somerset Council, are responsible for discharging the requirements contained within the Development Consent Order. The council also carries out a monitoring and compliance role with regard to provisions set out in the Order. The Council ensures legal obligations are met and that management plans, which form part of the Development Consent Order application, are implemented and updated. The Council also has a role in change management and in enforcement.
For more information on decision making process for applications relating to Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, visit National Infrastructure Planning – process.
Associated Development
Although the main site itself is located within West Somerset, its construction will be supported by a range of Associated Developments.
The Associated Development located within the Sedgemoor area are listed below:
- Sedgemoor Campus (accommodation), Bath Road, Bridgwater
- Park and Ride facilities at Cannington, Junctions 23 and 24 of the M5
- Cannington Bypass
- The refurbishment and extension of Combwich Wharf.
- Various road improvements including those at Taunton Road/Broadway, Bristol Road/The Drove, The Drove/Wylds Road, Bristol Road/Wylds Road and the roundabout at J23 of the M5.
Other sites in Sedgemoor also have a role to play but fall outside of the Development Consent Order process and are referred to as ‘ancillary sites’ in the Sedgemoor Local Plan. These include Cannington Court and temporary caravan parks, for example. Ancillary sites are subject to the Town and Country Planning Act processes, where relevant.
The Project's Potential
The construction project is expected to create 25,000 employment opportunities, including 1,000 apprenticeships and to contribute £1.5 billion to the local economy. During peak construction, it is estimated that approximately one third of the labour force will be drawn from the local population, but this figure will fluctuate throughout the construction period, depending on the skills required by the project. Furthermore, EDF Energy hope to assign up to 64% of the value of construction contracts to UK companies.
The Council and its partners are working to ensure that local people have the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to obtain work associated with the project and several state-of-the-art training facilities are now in operation. Sedgemoor is home to several commercial developments, both operational and under construction. These developments help local businesses and suppliers benefit from opportunities created by the Hinkley Point C project.
These commercial developments, together with a skilled local workforce, are expected to support the growth of a stronger, more innovative low-carbon economy. The aim is to create lasting economic benefits for Somerset that continue well beyond the construction of Hinkley Point C. Creating a long-term legacy from Hinkley Point C is a key priority for Somerset Council. The Gravity Enterprise Zone plays an important role in this by providing opportunities for business growth, investment and job creation, helping to establish Somerset as a leader in clean growth.
Section 106 Agreements
There will be a need to acquire a proportion of the labour force from outside the local area, which does have the potential to put pressure on existing accommodation, transport and service provision. These risks were identified in the Local Impact Report (2012) which was commissioned by Somerset Council. An executive summary of the Local Impact Report and the full report are available to read.
The risks identified by the report have been mitigated through funding provided by EDF Energy via Section 106 agreements, which enable the Council and its partners to support and implement a wide variety of projects. The S106 agreements can be found below:
Contacting EDF Energy
EDF Energy can be contacted with regard to Hinkley Point C by phone on 0333 009 7070 or by completing the online enquiry form.
A wide range of information is available on EDF Energy’s Hinkley Point C website.