Read online at https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/rspb-response-sizewell-c-stage-4-consultation-1-6167934

A wildlife charity has pledged to work with EDF to minimise the environmental impact of a new nuclear power station of the Suffolk coast – despite its concerns over the impact on a popular beauty spot.

Fears have been raised that the proposed new Sizewell C nuclear reactor could have a devastating impact on RSPB Minsmere.

EDF has said it is already trying to mitigate the potential effects of Sizewell C, for example by creating a new 165-acre heathland and wetland habitat at nearby Aldhurst Farm.

But the RSPB said its fears are still not being addressed as EDF started its fourth round of consultation on the project.

A spokesman for the RSPB said: “The RSPB does not believe that Sizewell is a suitable position for a new nuclear power station.

“As highlighted in the government’s National Policy Statement for Nuclear Power Generation (EN-6), Sizewell C could have detrimental impacts on internationally and nationally important landscapes, habitats and species of the Suffolk coast and at RSPB Minsmere nature reserve.

“We are yet to see evidence in full which addresses all our concerns and will not be satisfied until we have been presented with this.”

However the spokesman said: “We wish to work with EDF to ensure that if the proposed development does go ahead, we will see the best possible outcome for the environment and nature at RSPB Minsmere and beyond.”

In March, it was reported that Minsmere’s status as the UK’s most important bird reserve was at risk from Sizewell C, with the renewal of its European Diploma for Protected Areas only to be renewed on the condition a new reactor will not “detriment” the reserve.

The land owned by the RSPB is home to some of the UK’s most loved birds, including the nightingale, bearded tit and the majestic marsh harrier.

In the new plans, two sites are suggested to compensate for fen meadow that could be lost from the Sizewell Marshes Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The first proposal is east of Halesworth, while the other would be near Benhall.

Read online at https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/teags-b1122-sizewell-c-proposals-edf-1-6167515

Campaigners opposed to Sizewell C have hit out at proposals to tear up a multi-million relief road once the planned EDF plant has openedS

The latest stage four consultation on the £14billion twin reactor sees controversial parts, such as a campus for 2,400 workers at the nearby village of Eastbridge remain – despite widespread concerns.

Project development director Jim Crawford has backed the plans as a way to boost jobs, skills and education while tackling the global climate crisis.

However Alison Downes, of the Theberton and Eastbridge Action Group on Sizewell, said: “We called for more consultations, but see very little substance in EDF’s Stage 4 proposals.

“The company has completely ignored our concerns – and those of our MP and councils – about the location of the 2,400-bed campus.

“EDF staff even said at the community forum that split sites at Hinkley Point were not popular with contractors. Who are they putting first – their suppliers or local people?”You may also want to watch:

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The energy giant has also reiterated its plans for the proposed Two Villages Bypass of Stratford St Andrews and Farnham, as opposed to the Four Villages route supported by campaigners and Suffolk County Council.

The latest stage has also revealed suggestions that the proposed link road from the A12 near Yoxford could be demolished after Sizewell C’s construction.

Charles Macdowell, of B1122 Action Group – which does not directly oppose the project – said: “The fact that the company is now thinking of taking up this useless road after construction confirms that is has no interest in leaving a positive legacy.

“How much better would it be if they chose the right route that we and the County Council have been arguing for?”

The pressure Sizewell C would put on road infrastructure is fiercely debated by residents, councillors and developers, with the potential for hundreds of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to use the country roads on a daily basis.

Ms Downes added that she is concerned villages are being left out of EDF consultations for the first time in nearly seven years, although the company has planned six public exhibitions across east Suffolk between July 23 and 27.

Campaigners also noted the planned public exhibitions do not include the villages of Theberton, Eastbridge, Middleton and Darsham.