Alternative saltmarsh locations considered by Hinkley Point C
The Hinkley Point C nuclear power station project is investigating new locations for the creation of saltmarsh, as an alternative to the proposed site at Pawlett Hams near Bridgwater in Somerset. This follows a public consultation held earlier this year where hundreds of people shared their views on the proposal.
Hinkley Point C is obliged to make environmental improvements like saltmarsh to compensate for the very small impact the power station will have on fish numbers when operational. Measures also include the improvement of weirs in tributary rivers to help migrating fish reach their breeding grounds.
Initial investigations and surveys will help Hinkley Point C refine its proposals for environmental mitigation. Details of the sites under investigation will be shared after relevant stakeholders have been informed. A public consultation will be held before any new proposals are submitted. The consultation will be a key step in the development of a full planning application to be considered by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero in 2025.
Creating saltmarsh is a proven way to increase and protect biodiversity. It will help fish by providing breeding grounds and provide food and shelter for birds and animals. Saltmarsh also filters and cleans water, prevents floods and locks away carbon in one of our most effective weapons in the fight against climate change. As well as investigating alternative locations for saltmarsh, Hinkley Point C is now looking to make improvements to an additional weir on the River Wye at Osbaston near Monmouth. Upgrading weirs is one of the most effective ways to support migrating fish like Salmon and Shad - making it easier for them to make their journeys upstream.
Hinkley Point C is the first power station in the area to have any fish protection measures in place – including a fish recovery and return system and low velocity water intakes. Power stations have been taking cooling water from the Bristol Channel for decades with no significant impact on the wider environment or fish populations.
Andrew Cockcroft, Head of Stakeholder Relations at Hinkley Point C said: "We have listened carefully to concerns and suggestions made during our consultation and are now exploring changes to our proposals. Hinkley Point C is one of Britain’s biggest acts in the fight against climate change and its operation will provide significant benefits for the environment. The development of saltmarsh habitat will boost this further - helping support fish populations and minimise the small environmental impact of operating the new power station."
