'More compact' Wylfa Newydd nuclear plant proposed to free up land

Nuclear bosses are planning a “more compact” Wylfa Newydd development which will free up land around the site.

Horizon Nuclear Power have re-designed the scheme to reduce its overall footprint although it will still include two reactors and generate the same amount of power.

It will allow more land around the site to be made available for construction activities and potentially housing more workers.

A consultation on this change and the plans for worker accommodation across the island will launch next month ahead of a planning application for the entire scheme later this year.

Duncan Hawthorne, chief executive officer for Horizon, said: “As we move towards submitting an application to build the power station, we’re continually reviewing our proposals to ensure they are the best they can be for everyone with a stake in the project, including those living and working on Anglesey now and for generations to come.

“Our latest proposals include a more compact site layout that means more activities can be carried out closer to the power station.

“Many aspects of our proposals remain the same, including our commitment to the residents and communities of Anglesey, and to the Welsh language and culture.

“It’s really important for us to involve local people in shaping and refining our plans, so I’d like to thank everyone again for all of the feedback they’ve provided so far, and look forward to hearing their thoughts on our updates.”

It is understood the new plan will see more shared facilities between the two reactors rather than them operating as two separate plants.

The new consultation will launch on May 24 when the full details of the proposed changes are revealed.

It follows two major consultations in 2014 and 2016.

As well as holding events at venues across Anglesey, Horizon will also be out and about in a consultation bus visiting popular locations such as shopping centres and markets across North Wales.