Sizewell C gets operating permits as plan to build new nuclear power station moves forward
Plans for a new reactor are progressing - with the government awarding the project the permits it needs to operate.
Last updated 28th Mar 2023
Plans for a new nuclear reactor on the Suffolk coast have taken another step forward, with the government granting three permits needed for Sizewell C to operate.
It means the reactor project now has permission to dispose of radioactive matrials, operate standby diesel generators and discharge seawater used to cool the reactor back into the North Sea.
Sizewell C is expected to generate low-carbon electricity to supply six million homes upon completion, which is currently expected in 2031.
Ministers insist the project would create 10,000 highly skilled jobs and help the UK meet demand for electricity without the need to rely on fossil fuels.
But campaigners say the approval of the reactor went against the recommendations of the Planning Inspectorate and the advice of government conservation agency Natural England.
The Environment Agency's Sizewell C Project Manager, Simon Barlow, said:
“Today’s decision to issue the three permits for these operational activities comes after 10 years of pre-application discussions, three years of technical assessments and two public consultations."
"In reaching this decision we carefully considered all the responses from a wide range of stakeholders in the local community, national organisations and statutory consultees.
“I would like to thank everyone for contributing their evidence and views and attending our consultation events.
"We will continue our engagement with the local community as the company moves forward with its plans for construction of the nuclear power station.
“The documents we are publishing today provide detailed explanations of our decisions, show how we have considered all the relevant factors and explain our reasoning.
"By granting these permits many years ahead of Sizewell C operating, we can positively influence the design, procurement, and commissioning of the power station, whilst also ensuring that people and the environment are protected.”
Paul Collins, Chair of Stop Sizewell C said: "We are disappointed with the granting of these permits, but it must be remembered that Sizewell C still has no permits for construction and numerous other regulatory and financial obstacles to overcome."
"We are especially disappointed with the water discharge permit as, unlike at Hinkley Point C where the government agrees that an Acoustic Fish Deterrent is needed to reduce fish deaths the Environment Agency has decided none is necessary at Sizewell C.
"This will result in thousands of fish dying every day in Sizewell C's cooling system."