THE closing date for comments on EDF Energy's planning application for preliminary works for two new nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point has been extended until 5pm on January 31.

Andrew Goodchild, West Somerset Council's planning manager, said: "West Somerset Council has received a number of requests to extend the consultation deadline beyond the January 12.

"While the consultation period was already longer than was required to reflect the Christmas break and the nature of the application, having taken these requests into consideration, the consultation deadline has been extended until January 31.

"It is a major application that runs to hundred of pages and the information can be very complex so we consider the requests to be justified."

The documents are available for inspection online at the council's website at http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/hinkleypoint">www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/hinkleypoint or at the council offices in Killick Way, Williton. People can respond to the consultation via a form on the website, by email  to [email protected]">[email protected] or by writing to the council planning team at: West Somerset House, Killick Way, Williton, TA4 4QA.