Nuclear the 'last option' in 'energy hierarchy', says TCPA.(HOMES AND COMMUNITIES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE)(Town and Country Planning Association)

* Policy Framework for New Nuclear Build. Consultation Document. Department of Trade and Industry, Jul. 2006-12-31

The TCPA Response

HAVING DECIDED from its Energy Review that 'nuclear has a role to play in the future UK generating mix alongside low carbon generating options', the Government has, through a Department of Trade and Industry consultation document, subsequently sought views on a policy framework for new nuclear build, which would 'include a nuclear 'Statement of Need' and set out that national strategic and regulatory issues are most appropriately discussed through processes other than the planning inquiry'.

The TCPA's Planning for Sustainable Energy policy statement, published in June 2006, calls for investment in low-carbon technologies, but it also made it clear that the following critical issues need to be considered in relation to nuclear power:

* the effect of a new nuclear programme on investment in energy efficiency, renewable energy and more decentralised electricity generation systems;

* its impact on local environments and communities;

* the need for proper, community-involving planning, not simply speed;