Representatives of the Blackwater Against New Nuclear Group (BANNG) recently met with the Leader and Deputy Leader of Colchester Borough Council (CBC).
It was confirmed that the Council maintains its opposition to new nuclear build at Bradwell, in accordance with the motion passed unanimously by Full Council in February 2008.
It was also agreed that CBC would write to the Environment Agency (EA) to support BANNG’s opposition to the proposals in the EA’s latest consultation in relation to discharges into the Blackwater estuary of radioactivity and heavy metals, arising from the fuel element dissolution process at Bradwell.
Andy Blowers, Chair of BANNG, said after the meeting: “It was good to continue BANNG’s close relationship with Colchester Borough Council and to re-affirm our common position in opposition to the development of any new nuclear power station on the Bradwell site.
“We agree that a Bradwell B would inevitably pose a threat to the environment of the Blackwater estuary, which was created a Marine Conservation Zone specifically to protect the Colchester Native Oyster. It would also inevitably pose a threat to the public far into the future and impose on future generations the burden of dealing with highly radioactive nuclear wastes stored on-site.”
Cllr Paul Smith, Leader of Colchester Borough Council, said: “The Council continues to have grave concerns that a new nuclear reactor so close to the Borough and a major population centre will also have a detrimental effect on a unique and sensitive marine environment.
“I am encouraged that we have been able to work closely with BANNG to find common cause in opposing the government’s plans for Bradwell B. It is vital that the views of those most likely to be impacted by the proposals are given full and frank expression to inform the final decision.”
“Cllr Tim Young, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Regeneration, and Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “You really do not need a crystal ball to realise that another nuclear power station on our doorstep will bring with it an increased risk to public safety and the natural environment, which will continue to impact generations to come.
“We need to ensure the promoters of Bradwell B take our concerns seriously. Working alongside BANNG will enable us to have a stronger voice to influence policy and the final decision on whether or not to proceed with this dubious scheme.”