A CAMPAIGN group is calling for an extension of the public consultation into the Bradwell B plans after the coronavirus outbreak led to the cancellation of the planned face to face meetings with the public.

The Blackwater Against New Nuclear Group (BANNG) claims the cancellation of exhibitions means the public are only “partially informed” of the plans and any feedback will be unrepresentative.

Chairman Andy Blowers wrote a letter to CGN, the company aiming to bring the HPR100 reactor technology to Bradwell, calling for them to postpone the consultation altogether and run it at a later date.

Mr Blowers said: “We have already pointed out the consultation is premature, taking place before detailed discussions with the regulators have begun and years before a full application for permission to develop could be made.

“It is incomprehensible that Bradwell B is pressing on with a partially completed process, the more so now while people are distracted with the epidemic in full swing.

“There is really no substitute for direct interaction and scrutiny of plans. Responding online or by post is obviously valuable but a one-dimensional form of participation.

“In any case there are substantial numbers who do not have ready access to online information and who may be unable to visit the places where information is provided.

“A partially completed consultation can only result in a partial understanding of issues of concern to the public.”

Mr Blowers said terminating the exhibitions and not re-running them will mean the scale of residents’ concern about the project will be overlooked when any decision is made.

He added: “BANNG, therefore, urges Bradwell B to cancel the consultation as a whole and to re-run it at a later date, if the company still thinks it worth proceeding with the project.”

The Bradwell B team said they had taken the most responsible course of action by cancelling the remaining events.

A spokesman said: “These meetings comprised only one route to engage with the consultation which otherwise continues as planned.

“People can ask questions of our team via phone on 01621 451451 or by emailing info@bradwellb.co.uk.

“Feedback on the proposals can be given at any time online, by phone or by post up until May 27.”

The consultation documents can be found at bradwellb.co.uk.