Multi-Pronged Objections to Trident Replacement

Controversy is growing ahead of the planning decision over whether to update and upgrade the nuclear warhead facility at AWE Aldermaston.

On Wednesday evening West Berkshire Borough Council's Eastern Area PAC (Planning Application Committee) will make the decision on whether to go ahead with the development of the site having rejected an application from Reading Borough Council to defer, citing guidelines from central government.

The Ministry of Defence countered claims by the Nuclear Awareness Group (NAG) that the location of the site is too close to densely populated Reading, by stating that "The safety of operations at AWE is top priority," but NAG struck back arguing that the MoD has "refused to release any information about the risks the new factory would pose" to more than 200,000 people who live within 5 miles of the site [1].

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the potential for flooding from nearby Burghfield Brook, which could spread radioactive contamination.

The controversial application has recieved a record level of public complaints - expected to top 1000 by the time the committee takes their seats on Wednesday.

RBC Liberal Democrat Environment spokesman Glenn Goodall describes the action he has taken and provides further details on his personal blog.

Green party activist Rob White reprints a letter written by NAG spokesman Peter Burt.

Update: Adrian Windisch advertises the protest.