Nuclear plan sees 1,000 responses

Aldermaston is responsible for making Britain's Trident nuclear warheads

Some 1,000 comments have been lodged over a plan to modernise a nuclear warhead facility in Berkshire.

Many people raised concerns over flooding at the proposed new facility at the Aldermaston Atomic Weapons Establishment.

Planners have highlighted construction would be on an area classed as having a high probability of flooding.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said the buildings would be made of reinforced concrete and raised from the ground.

Under the plan, a new main facility, support building with 16 lighting protector towers, gate houses, access roads and security fences would be constructed at the site.

A flood report highlighted some of the site was within a zone at risk from the Burghfield Brook.

I do not believe that the environmental impacts of the development have been adequately assessed Objection letter from Brian Woodgate

One objection letter from Brian Woodgate, of Burghfield Common, read: "The site has a history of flooding and is poorly served by local roads.

"I do not believe that the environmental impacts of the development have been adequately assessed."

David Allen, from Newbury, also commented: "The road system is inadequate for evacuation...[and] the site has a history of flooding."

The plan will be considered by West Berkshire District Council on 4 March.

A spokesman said the flood assessment would be taken into account by councillors.

Aldermaston is responsible for the production of warheads for the Trident nuclear deterrent programme and its planned replacement.

It has been the headquarters for the UK's atomic warhead capability for more than 50 years.