HINKLEY Point C has opened an online public consultation so locals can have their say on upcoming work at the nuclear power plant near Bridgwater.

Topics up for consultation include the plans for a new 800-acre saltmarsh, which would also include the planting of seagrass and kelp, as well as the development of native oyster beds and removal of barriers for migrating fish.

Another issues at the forefront of the consultation is the potential removal of plans for an acoustic fish deterrent.

The deterrent would use 288 speakers to make noise louder than a jumbo jet 24-hours a day for 60 years in attempt to deter fish from swimming into Hinkley Point C's cooling system.

Other topics which are open to public consultation include changes to the interim spent fuel store and equipment storage building, additional sluice gate storage, relocation and redesign of the meteorological mast, and retention of the Hinkley Point Substation.

The consultation period runs from Tuesday, January 9, until Thursday, February 29 - feedback can be submitted via the Hinkley Point C website - alternatively, call EDF on 0333 009 7070.

A spokesperson for Hinkley Point C said: "We are seeking the views of the local community and relevant stakeholders on the proposed changes through this consultation.

"This consultation is the beginning of the process.

"The application will eventually be decided by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero in early 2026."