County looks at nuclear options

Sizewell B, near Leiston, Suffolk, was built between 1988 and 1995

Concerns that Suffolk could be chosen as a site for new nuclear power stations is set to be discussed by councillors next week.

As Suffolk is already home to Sizewell B nuclear power station the area may be considered for a new plant if the government backs nuclear energy.

The Suffolk County Council report says it is vital the benefits and risks to Suffolk are considered by ministers.

It says local people have the right to question the need for a Suffolk plant.

The report, in response to a government consultation on energy, adds: "Any new site will create some harm, at the very least, in the form of their substantial bulk in the landscape.

"Without knowing whether one, two or 10 plants are required, it is difficult to know whether that harm to a specific site is necessary to meet a national need.

"Therefore, the decision-making process should be clearer about the scale of the need than appears likely at the present."

A report to the full meeting of the council, on 12 July, will recommend to the government that it is vital it makes clear the scale of new nuclear provision that is required.