A meeting of Lancaster City Council on 15th December was presented with a recommendation from Andrew Dobson (Head of Regeneration and Policy) that read: “That Council responds to the consultation on the National Policy Statements in the form drafted and attached to this report at Appendix B, and makes it clear that it supports the nuclear new build projects at Heysham and Sellafield in principle subject to mitigation of any adverse effects.” Councillor Bryning (Labour) proposed that Council adopts this recommendation.  This was supported by all Labour, Conservative and Lib Dem  councillors (Note 1) who spoke.

John Whitelegg (Green Party) proposed an amendment that deleted the word “support” and inserted the word “oppose”.  He argued that nuclear power was expensive and dangerous, high risk, usually over budget and usually delivered several years late and is associated with serious health risks (e.g. leukaemia).  He argued that we should support wind and wave power and other renewable energy technologies all of which have far greater potential to create jobs and minimise risks.  Other green councillors including Cllrs Barry and Coates also spoke in support of Cllr Whitelegg’s amendment. (more…)