A new report has emphasised that a new nuclear power station on the Wylfa site is key to the UK Government's objectives for future electricity generation.

Today, the Welsh Affairs Committee recommended that the UK Government should do more and take decisive action if its nuclear energy objectives are to be achieved.

A new development on the Wylfa site on Anglesey is key to the United Kingdom’s ability to generate a large percentage of the country's electricity, 24GW, by 2050 as well as meeting net zero targets. The Wylfa site is already considered one of the best in the UK for developing a new nuclear power station.

The findings of the inquiry by a group of cross-party MPs have been welcomed by the Isle of Anglesey County Council.

Anglesey council leader and economic development portfolio holder, Councillor Llinos Medi said: “We are now looking for certainty, details, and timescales from the government in relation to a development at Wylfa. The possibility of a nuclear development at Wylfa has been in the pipeline for over a decade now.”

“We have already welcomed the establishment of ‘Great British Nuclear’ who will be responsible for generating 24GW of nuclear energy by 2050. But as an island, we are now keen to see this body gathering momentum.”

She added, “Communities in the north of the island are still feeling the blow of Horizon Nuclear Power’s decision to withdraw from the Wylfa Newydd project in 2020. Meanwhile, our communities have also felt the effects of the pandemic, the loss of a key employers on the island such as Two Sisters resulting in job losses along with census data showing that our population is ageing.”

“There is a need to identify a clear programme for nuclear developments in the UK including the Wylfa site. This would allow us as a county council to plan with confidence and certainty for the future and work towards ensuring the prosperity of our communities and the wider region.”

The inquiry looked at evidence from key stakeholders and recognised that the lack of financial agreements and land ownership is a substantial barrier to a nuclear development at Wylfa.

Chief Executive, Dylan J, Williams said “Through the Energy Island Programme, the council continues to support developing the Wylfa site, whether that’s a GW scale or modular development.”

“This support comes on the condition that transformative benefits will be secured for the island and its residents. These would have to include employment and supply chain opportunities throughout the lifetime of the project, valuing the sense of place that exists within communities and creating a positive legacy.”

“The island has already benefited from the existing station, with numerous communities and families benefiting through long term employment on the site.

He added, “We remain committed to playing our part and engaging with the UK and Welsh governments to have an influence. We will also continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that the appropriate skills are available locally and that businesses that are part of the local supply chain take full advantage of the opportunities.”

“We are now looking for certainty from the UK government that a development will take place on the Wylfa site to enable us to plan effectively and influence and give assurances to our communities.”

Ends 3 May 2023