Bridgwater & West Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger, Sedgemoor District Council Leader Duncan McGinty and West Somerset District Council Leader Anthony Trollope-Bellew have all welcomed yesterday's deal between EDF and CGN (China General Nuclear Corporation), progressing plans for the construction of Hinkley C.
Councillor McGinty said, “We welcome the announcement which represents significant progress for Hinkley Point C which will be the UK's largest engineering and construction project in modern times. Sedgemoor District Council, together with partners, will continue working towards maximising local benefits but being mindful of the mitigating measures that will be required."
Councillor Anthony Trollope-Bellew added, "West Somerset Council as the host authority of the project very much welcomes the news regarding Chinese investment in Hinkley Point C.The opportunity for our communities, our people and our businesses is enormous.The Council has been working alongside a host of partners and EDF Energy and we are already seeing local companies winning contracts; local people benefiting from training and employment opportunities, gaining qualifications - all adding real value to the local economy."
Ian Liddell-Grainger also welcomed the deal stating, "The agreement between Beijing’s state owned nuclear companies and EDF is absolutely crucial. Our new Chinese compatriots should be considered heroes. Without their money Hinkley could have died of cash starvation. The deal means that work can really start in earnest on constructing this huge project. It guarantees thousands of jobs and ensures that there will be substantial training opportunities."