THE findings of a task group set up to look into the creation of a new power station at Bradwell are to go before Colchester Council.

Members of the council’s strategic overview and scrutiny panel are expected to consider and endorse proposals made by the group, when they meet tomorrow.

The council asked the panel to consider all sides of the argument in February last year, after it discussed the possible construction of a new power station, fearing its proximity to the town would cause controversy.

The group is expected to ask the panel to propose a number of recommendations to the cabinet, and then the full council.

These include forming Bradwell Liaison Working Group to consider all the issues and proposals. Also, that the possibility of future flooding and sea defences should be looked at and further investigation takes place into how the chlorination process would affect the eco-system of the estuary and the livelihoods of local fisherman.

It also wants the council to ask Essex County Council to think about forming an Essex Nuclear Energy Group, made up of the county council, Maldon District Council, Colchester Council and other leading key organisations, so they could meet to discuss the plans and how it would affect people, businesses and groups in the area.

It wants the cabinet to request more medical evidence about cases of people contracting cancer in the area and to ensure, if a planning application is made in the future, it will consider the size and scale of the proposals and how it will affect West Mersea residents and the surrounding area.

A report to go before the panel reveals the task force met with health officials, wildlife experts, marine ecologists and local fishermen, among others, as part of its investigations.

The only two benefits, says the group, would be a boost to the economy for shops and businesses and the creation of jobs in the construction and, later, staffing of the power station.

It has also suggested creating a Mersea to Bradwell ferry in a bid to win over some local sceptics and help with commuting.

The matter will be discussed in the Town Hall from 6pm by the panel and then referred back to the cabinet for a decision.