THE GREENLIGHT for new nuclear plans in Suffolk has led to a political clash in Copeland as politicians argue that it is bad news for the area’s own clean energy ambitions.
Political and business leaders in Copeland have high hopes that NDA owned land in the area could host cutting-edge clean energy technology.
Moorside neighbouring Sellafield is shortlisted in the competition to host the STEP Tokamak fusion reactor and Rolls Royce has an agreement with the council to try and bring a Small Modular Reactor technology to Fellside.
READ MORE: Copeland's nuclear boss says future is bright for SMR and fusion
Two thirds of energy produced by the SMR would serve Sellafield, it is believed one scheme could benefit the other as fusion would require a large amount of electricity.
But Copeland Labour has hit out at the borough’s MP following news that Sizewell C in Suffolk has been greenlit for large scale gigabyte reactors.
Former Labour parliamentary candidate Tony Lywood said: “The Government’s announcement on Sizewell C is to be welcomed but is a deep disappointment to the people of Copeland who hoped that our area would have been chosen instead.
“Trudy Harrison MP’s constant refrain was that this Conservative Government would deliver new nuclear for West Cumbria.”
In a statement, Copeland Labour called on Mrs Harrison to resign so “the people of Copeland can choose a stronger advocate for their industry.”
READ MORE: Copeland MP holds reception to highlight region's STEP bid
Mrs Harrison responded: “The Government has published a plan to expand the country’s nuclear power generation to 24 gigawatts by 2050 and I am absolutely determined that Copeland will play a significant role in helping to achieve this.”
Mr Lywood said: “She has utterly misled the people of Copeland and suggestions of a new nuclear build are now completely hollow.”
“We need a Government that would put West Cumbria at the forefront of a new nuclear, something that Mrs Harrison has failed to deliver as out MP.”
But Mrs Harrison said: “In addition to SMRs, neighbouring land at Moorside is one of the final five locations being considered by the Government for the first-of-a-kind Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) nuclear fusion plant, on which a decision is expected this year.
“Significant progress is being made and there could not be a stronger and more passionate advocate for Copeland’s nuclear industry and future development.”
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