Campaigners were celebrating today after the consultation period for British Nuclear Fuel's plans to burn low-level radioactive waste at Bradwell Power Station was extended.

The Environment Agency decided to make the move after pleas from a large number of communities, including Mersea, Colchester and Clacton.

Many asked for extra time to respond to the proposals as they said they had not been fully consulted.

Alan McGoff, Environment Agency site inspector for Bradwell Power Station, said that consultation was continuing.

"We have listened to all the views expressed at our public meetings and are carefully considering the responses received so far," he said.

Judith Searle, of Colchester, who organised the town's campaign, said: "I am shocked they have extended the consultation as I didn't expect that at all."

Joanne Atkins, of Mersea, who organised the island's petition, said: "There are a lot of people who feel they have been left out of the consultation, like Clacton and Colchester, and it is good they will have their chance."

The consultation period is being extended to February 28, instead of last Monday.

By Nigel Brown

Reporter's e-mail: nigel_brown@thisisessex.co.uk

and Lauren Spurgeon

Reporter's e-mail: lauren_spurgeon@thisisessex.co.uk

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