19 November 2009 15:54
Horizon Nuclear Power outlines environmental assessment work for Oldbury, invites local residents to public exhibitions

The two companies behind the new Horizon Nuclear Power joint venture, E.ON and RWE, have today (THURS) published their preliminary report on the potential environmental impacts of a new nuclear plant at Oldbury.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Report has been issued to the newly-formed Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC), which has been set up to manage the planning process for major projects such as new power stations.

Planning and Consents Manager Tim Proudler said: "The Scoping Report allows us to share our views on the likely key environmental impacts of a new plant. Any feedback that we receive on this information will help us in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Assessment that would accompany any formal planning application further down the line."

The report, which is accompanied by a formal request for ‘Scoping Opinion', has been put together following discussions with a number of consultees including South Gloucestershire Council and the Environment Agency.

Members of the local community will be able to view copies of the report at the company's forthcoming public exhibitions, scheduled to start in Oldbury on Saturday 21 November. Copies are also available on line at www.eon-uk.com/oldbury.

"We had some very successful sessions earlier in the year and we recognise that people probably have many more questions about how our studies are progressing so it will be great to have the opportunity to meet with local residents again," said Tim.

"In addition to the scoping report, we'll also have more information on potential reactor designs, cooling towers and some illustrative layouts so that people can get a feel for how a new plant might be placed on the land we've nominated for new build.

"I'd certainly urge anyone interested in the project to come and see us at one of the exhibitions."

People with questions can also get in touch via the freephone information line on 0800 130 3125.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• The Scoping Report will help the IPC to form their ‘Scoping Opinion', which will set out the main environmental issues to be addressed as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
• In addition to Oldbury, Horizon Nuclear Power is also developing proposals for a new plant at Wylfa on Anglesey in North Wales.

Exhibition Schedule: Autumn 2009

Saturday 21 November - 10am-6pm

Venue: Oldbury-on-Severn Memorial Hall,13 Camp Road, Oldbury-on Severn BS35 1PT

Tuesday 24th November - 12pm-8pm

Venue: Town Hall, Salter Street, Berkeley, Gloucestershire GL13 9DB

Thursday 26th November - 12pm-8pm

Venue: The Old Town Hall, ‘The Shambles', High Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 1AP

Saturday 28th November - 10am-6pm

Venue: Cossham Hall, Armstrong Hall complex, Chapel Street, Thornbury BS35 2BJ

Tuesday 1st December - 12pm-8pm

Venue: Lydney Town Hall, High Street, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 5DY

Thursday 3rd December - 12pm-8pm

Venue: Drill Hall, Lower Church Street, Chepstow, Monmouthshire NP16 5HJ

For more information contact:

Emily Highmore on 024 7618 3680 or email emily.highmore@eon-uk.com