Hartlepool has its say on nuclear future

Hartlepool residents were last weekend asked to have their say on proposals to a build a new nuclear power station in the area. Hartlepool was confirmed last week as a potential site for a new nuclear power station.

The move is part of the government's efforts to encourage more energy sources that don't harm that planet, but also boost Britain's own energy security.

Residents had a chance to find out more about the proposed site at an exhibition held at the Hartlepool Maritime Experience. People also took part in a public discussion event, which will was held on Saturday morning.

Energy and climate change minister, Lord Hunt said: "As we head towards a global agreement to tackle climate change the UK needs to transform its energy sector, replacing old infrastructure with high tech, low carbon energy sources.

"Nuclear power provides reliable , cost-effective and low carbon energy and will play a vital role, alongside renewable and clean coal in a secure energy mix for the UK.

"Seaton Ward power station in Hartlepool has supplied the UK with nuclear energy for over 26 years but is due to close in 2014. A new power station could provide as many as 9,000 jobs in the area during construction."

The announcement on new nuclear sites was made of part of a planning overhaul for big energy projects and ten potential new sites for nuclear energy were named as part of a new National Policy Statement. The others are Bradwell, Braystones, Hartlepool, Heysham, Hinkley Point, Kirksanton, Oldbury, Sellafield, Sizewell and Wylfa. Hartelpool was nominated by EDF.

Following the nomination of the sites the Department of Energy and Climate Change will be conducting a 15-week consultation to hear people's views about the proposals.

The new Infrastructure Planning Commission will use the National Policy Statement when considering planning applications for new nuclear power stations. This consultation is an opportunity for local people to influence what the IPC should take into account when considering whether to grant consent or not.