THE £18 billion Hinkley Point C nuclear power station finally got the green light yesterday (Thursday) after ten years of uncertainty.

The government’s decision to go ahead with the controversial project - which will provide electricity for six million homes for 60 years - will bring £200 million to the local economy and benefit the region by around £4 billion.

The French-led project will see China invest £6 billion in it, and there will be new safeguards to make sure that Chinese involvement will not threaten national security.

Vincent de Rivaz, CEO of EDF Energy, said: “Today’s announcement is good news for British consumers, a huge boost for British industry and a major step forward in the fight against climate change.

“The strong performance of the EDF Energy’s 15 nuclear reactors underpins our credibility as a nuclear operator and developer in the UK.

“We will take the risk and responsibility to deliver Hinkley Point C and provide the UK with the reliable low carbon electricity it needs.

“The experience and expertise gained from restarting new nuclear build in the UK will help following projects be cheaper.”

Local MP Ian Liddell-Grainger said yesterday: “I am absolutely delighted with the decision. We have had to live with setbacks and uncertainty for nearly ten years and finally we have the news which will transform West Somerset.”

But he warned: “Although this is an occasion for celebration, the truth is that the hard work starts from now on.”

Full report in the Free Press (September 16)