Study assessing ‘up to eight options’ for Sizewell C workforce campus

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Research is being carried out into a number of alternative options for a campus for workers constructing the Sizewell C nuclear power station.

A computer-generated image of how the Sizewell nuclear complex would look after construction of Sizewell C. Image: EDF EnergyA computer-generated image of how the Sizewell nuclear complex would look after construction of Sizewell C. Image: EDF Energy
Current proposals for accommodation for 2,400 workers at Eastbridge, near Leiston, have been heavily criticised – with most councils and campaigners deeply unhappy at the location.

Now it has been revealed Suffolk County Council is carrying out research into what campaigners believe could be up to eight alternative sites or options for the campus.

Some campaigners would prefer to see several small sites located around the area rather than one huge village-sized block, while others believe the accommodation should be much further away – the edge of Ipswich or Lowestoft.

In its latest consultation, EDF puts forward only the site at of the junction of the B1122 and Eastbridge Road but various options for it – with buildings four or five storeys high depending on whether sports facilities are on-site or built in Leiston.

EDF feels a campus close to the construction site will have operational advantages and reduce bus journeys.

The county council says it understands the rationale of an accommodation campus located at or close to the construction site, but “remains concerned about the environmental impacts of the proposed site location, which may cause an overload on the sensitive environment of the AONB”.

Theberton and Eastbridge Action Group on Sizewell (TEAGS) said: “We do not understand EDF’s refusal to properly consider and report on alternative campus locations, perhaps multiple sites, in urban settings with suitable infrastructure in place.

“EDF insists that a single on-site campus is more ‘efficient’ – for the developer, perhaps, but not for residents or tourists.”

A Suffolk County Council spokesman said: “We are in the process of producing a report looking at the options surrounding the accommodation for those working on the Sizewell C project.

“When it is complete the report will be shared with all stakeholders to help inform further consultation and discussion with EDF Energy.

“We’ve asked EDF Energy to look again at their current plans as we are not convinced and we believe they need to do more work surrounding our concerns.”