COUNCILLORS have unanimously agreed to adopt a document offering guidelines to future planning proposals related to the Hinkley Point C project.

Sedgemoor District Council's Hinkley Point C supplementary planning document provides direction and guidance for potential developments, and seeks to ensure benefits, such as training and employment, for local people are secured.

It also focuses on minimising adverse environmental and social impacts, and sets out how Hinkley Point C proposals could be aligned with local development plans and strategies, with a focus on transport and accommodation infrastructure.

Councillors adopted the document at Wednesday's special full council meeting after a presentation by Tim Durrant.

Cllr Mike Casswell called for Steart, Otterhampton and Stockland Bristol to be included in the report as villages that will be affected by the project, while Cllr Neville Jones said he was disappointed a park and ride facility for Hinkley Point C workers will not be set up near junction 22 on the M5.

Cllr Ann Bown said: “It's a very good document but I am a bit concerned that the bypass for Cannington to Hinkley Point seems not to be happening.

“They are fed up with all the cars going into the area, and there are problems with young people trying to get to school.”

Cllr Mick Lerry added: “The Labour group is in support of adopting the SDP and we recognise we are on the cusp of a major project.

“We want to see this as key regeneration of Bridgwater, to bring in job opportunities and allowing real hopes for the young people of the town.”

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