Ashfords partner Tony Mason says it’s important to know where you stand on planning consultations.

IN this column in January I wrote about the first stage of the consultation on the proposed new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point.

As many will know, the next stage in the process has started with a second round of consultations on EDF's preferred proposals for Hinkley Point C, as the scheme is known.

The consultation started on July 9 and will run through until October 4, 2010. During this time, EDF will be seeking the views of people living near Hinkley Point, the general public and other interested parties about their plans.

Since the earlier consultation there have been some changes to the proposals and, notably, there will no longer be accommodation campuses in Cannington and Williton.

This facility will instead be concentrated in Bridgwater. Freight facilities will now be located only at junctions 23 and 24 on the M5, and at Combwich Wharf. In addition, the western route has been selected for the new Cannington bypass.

Each of these proposals will have implications for land owners and others who might find that their businesses are affected. Here at Ashfords we have set up a dedicated team of lawyers to deal with the legal issues that will arise; a specialist team who will deal with matters such as:

  • Planning;
  • Agricultural business;
  • Commercial agreements;
  • Compulsory purchase orders;
  • Land transactions; and
  • Leisure business.

As part of this stage of the process, EDF energy will be writing to and consulting all affected land owners. This includes those who might be affected even if their land is not actually required for the new power station and associated infrastructure.

It is important that all land owners seek appropriate legal and valuation advice at an early stage. It is always advisable to know where you stand prior to entering into any discussions or negotiations that may have far reaching implications, both in terms of land holdings and businesses.

If you require further information, contact me on 01823-232368 or t.mason@ashfords.co.uk, to be put in touch with the appropriate specialist lawyer.