GovWire

NNB Generation Company (Hinkley Point C) Limited applied to the Environment Agency to change its water discharge activity permit in December 2022. We consulted on the application from January to March 2023.

The application asked the Environment Agency to make these changes to the permit:

• remove all references to the acoustic fish deterrent (AFD)
• remove all references to the effects of abstracting cooling water the Environment Agency does not regulate abstraction from the open sea
• add the discharge of seawater and biomass from the fish recovery and return system

The Environment Agencys proposed decision is to grant the variation the operator has requested. We are proposing to add new conditions and limits in the permit to protect people and the environment.

We want your views on our proposed decision and draft permit to help us come to a final decision in summer 2023.

We have published the following documents for you to consider:

• draft permit for a water discharge activity
• draft decision document for variation of the water discharge activity permit
• Habitats Regulations assessment report
• SSSI assessment report
• WFD compliance assessment report

Our consultations are open to everyone and, in particular, we invite the following groups to take part:

• members of the public and communities (including local interest and action groups), particularly those in west Somerset near to the Hinkley site
• elected representatives, including MPs
• local councils near the site
• the nuclear industry
• academics, scientists and consultants with an interest in nuclear power, energy or the environment
• non-governmental organisations (NGOs), campaign groups and environmental groups
• statutory consultees
• other government agencies
• other regulators
• any other organisation or public bodies

Ways to respond

Respond online through Citizen Space.

Email: psc-waterquality@environment-agency.gov.uk

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