THE New Nuclear Local Authorities Group (NNLAG) Conference starts in Whitehaven tomorrow.

This is being held at Summergrove Halls and runs until Friday.

It includes 15 local authorities from across the UK who are likely to be affected by and benefit from proposals for new nuclear power stations.

Its aim is to share knowledge, information and best practice on the process of developing new nuclear power stations from a local authority perspective.

Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie said: “I am very pleased to welcome this important group to Copeland.

"The work of the NNLAG ensures local authorities with a vested interest in matters new nuclear meet to share their knowledge and expertise and moreover provide an interface with Government."

Items up for discussion include housing, transport, skills and tourism impacts of nuclear new build.

NuGen will give a presentation on the Moorside project in Copeland on Thursday.

Chair of NNLAG, Geoff Holdcroft, the deputy leader of Suffolk Coastal District Council, said: “Hosting a major national infrastructure project, such as a new nuclear power station, has a massive impact on any area.

"Whilst we support the need for these projects in principle, it is important that we local authorities work together to maximise the benefits for our communities, while minimising the negative impacts. Conferences such as this have an essential role to play in us sharing best practice and presenting a united front to the Government and the major multinational companies proposing these new power stations.”