Published: June 16, 2012
Hinkley Point crime fears are played down by power firm EDF

The firm behind plans to build a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point near Burnham-On-Sea has this week denied that the project will bring fresh crime and disorder to the area.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary has warned that the construction process could become the focus of major protests, and says it wants extra compensation for the increased costs of policing anti-nuclear demonstrations.

It also has warned that the project could bring an influx of transient and foreign workers to the area, which may affect community relations.

EDF Energy says a £500 million package of compensation measures with local communities has already been put in place.

An EDF spokesman added that strict conditions will mean its workers will "contribute positively to the local area" and that health, education and emergency services would be funded to meet any additional demand.

"The Planning Inspectorate, through its evidence-based examination process, will determine what it regards as appropriate mitigation for the Hinkley Point C project," said the spokesman.

"We remain confident that we provide responsible and comprehensive mitigation for the carefully-identified impacts of the project. Overall, we have been working with local councils and other bodies for more than three years to maximise the opportunities that Hinkley Point C will bring."

EDF predicts the project will generate up to 25,000 jobs during construction and add £100 million each year to the regional economy. But the Stop Hinkley pressure group claims the company's plans for nuclear power in the UK are "stumbling."