GREEN Party members in Bridgend have said they are opposed to plans for a nuclear power plant project in the Llynfi Valley describing it as “unnecessary, unwanted and unsafe”.
The multi-million proposals could eventually see the creation of a facility with four micro modular nuclear power plants on the site of the former coal-powered Llynfi Power Station, if given the go-ahead.
The project is being put forward by US company Last Energy and could see land at the former Bridgend power station, which was closed in 1977, brought back to life as part of the new development.
Plans say if they are approved the first of the four plants could become operational by 2027, with a project that is said to be able to generate the equivalent annual power needs of 244,000 UK homes per year, as well as creating around 100 new jobs.
However, the Bridgend branch of the Green Party have now issued a statement opposing the potential power station, raising concerns over safety with what they say is an “untested” design planned for the site.
Debra Cooper of the Green Party said: “Green Party policy is clear, and without a shadow of doubt. We do not support nuclear power or the production of nuclear weapons.
“We are absolutely against the development of a nuclear power station in the Llynfi Valley. We regret that any project of this nature is even considered as a viable energy supplier, and the stress it has inevitably put on local people.”
Part of the statement added: “This is a new design which if built will be the first of its kind. So the design is untested in the real world. Locals, including local Green Party members have several credible reasons for concern.
“The Green Party questions the need for a nuclear power plant, when Wales has the natural resources required to produce all its energy from a mixture of solar power, onshore and off-shore wind generation.”
“The risk of nuclear leaks, from the on-site nuclear waste storage is not acceptable. Who will pay for future nuclear waste storage? There is a risk that no other region of the UK will be willing to store the nuclear waste, and that this area will become a long term nuclear waste storage site. The consequences of accidental leakage and terrorist targeting has not been fully considered.”
The group also questioned how locals had been invited to a series of public consultation meetings in Bettws and Pencoed where the proposals were discussed, with many said to be “unaware that these meetings were taking place”.
A spokesperson speaking on behalf of Last Energy responded by saying that the meetings had been promoted by leaflets, online advertising, and work with local councillors, with event listings and advisories posted on their website.
They also addressed safety concerns saying, “Last Energy intentionally leverages proven reactor technology already found in over 300 operating nuclear plants worldwide.
“We use existing supply chains, an existing fuel type, and draw from decades of industry experience and operational knowledge. Pressurised water reactors and modular manufacturing are both tested and proven in the real world.”
They added: “Prior to plant construction, all design and safety systems will be reviewed and approved by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). We will also undergo extensive environmental reviews and permitting with Natural Resource Wales (NRW) and the Environment Agency (EA). Launching a nuclear facility requires that we first receive a Radioactive Substances Regulations Permit before any nuclear material is brought on site.”
It is understood that the Washington-based company has now formally entered into a site licensing process with the UK’s nuclear regulator the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) with the final planning decision set to be made by Welsh Government ministers as it is a project of national significance.
