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Advice to Chris Eaglen

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Enquiry

From
Chris Eaglen
Date advice given
6 April 2011
Enquiry type
Email

Dr Chris Eaglen wrote to us with some general queries and observations about Nuclear Generating Stations. A copy of his correspondence can be found here:

http://infrastructure.independent.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/110406_NCS_Eaglen.pdf

Advice given

Dear Dr Eaglen,

Thank you for your three emails of 6 April 2011. I apologise for the delay in replying to you.

To date, there have been no applications for Nuclear Generating Stations made under the 2008 Act. The government has published a draft of its National Policy Statement on Nuclear Generation, which is site-specific, and we are aware that pre-application work is being undertaken by some developers in preparation for submission of applications. We anticipate that the first nuclear application will be EDF/NNB’s proposal for the Hinkley Point C site later this year. Details of forthcoming projects can be found on our website at http://infrastructure.independent.gov.uk/

There is no difference in the process that applications for development consent follow, based on the type of nationally significant infrastructure that is proposed. However, since the process is flexible, larger and more contentious applications can have larger panels of Commissioners.

Policy for Nationally Significant Energy Infrastructure Projects, as set out in National Policy Statements EN1 through EN6, is the responsibility of DECC. How this policy is formed is a matter for them.

The IPC does not have a policy-making role. We impartially apply policy, but do not create it. We do not have the function of requiring reviews of government policy in the way you describe. The Secretary of State could order such a review; any role played by the IPC would be extremely limited.

The IPC also does not issue generic design approvals for nuclear generating technology, or nuclear installation licences. Our function is limited to consideration of applications for development consent.

Since the various environmental issues you raise are likely to be the responsibility of different departments within the Environment Agency I would suggest that you contact their general enquires line on 08708 506 506 and allow them to direct your query to the appropriate officer.

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