Planning maze puts UK's mini-nuclear dreams at risk, says top exec

British nuclear development faces challenges from complex building regulations that slow down major projects. Top industry leader points to excessive red-tape as main obstacle for quick construction

October 27 2024 , 01:21 PM  •  929 views

Planning maze puts UK's mini-nuclear dreams at risk, says top exec

Environmental red-tape makes it nearly-impossible to build new stuff in Britain according to Rick Springman from Holtec International who shared his thoughts about UKʼs nuclear future (during his London visit this Oct)

The system has gotten more complex since the 90s: with many well-meant but over-detailed rules that slow down construction projects. “We havent really had to do much large construction over the last few decades“ Springman explained; pointing out how extra requirements pile up and create delays

Holtec joins the mini-nuclear race as one of four companies trying to build Britains first small reactors The firm wants to make reactor parts in South Yorkshire - a project that needs about £325m to start but could grow into a £1.5bn investment creating up-to 3000 jobs

Weʼre going to show the world that it can be done

Springman on building SMRs

The companys SMR-300 tech differs from old-style nuclear plants: these new ones use factory-made parts that workers put together on-site like building blocks. This cuts down both time and money needed for construction

UK still leads Europe in nuclear development but faces tough competition from:

  • Czech Republic
  • Poland
  • Hungary
  • Canada

Kris Singh‚ Holtecs founder runs things differently than big corporations - he focuses on getting stuff done rather than pleasing shareholders. The company works with UK nuclear regulators to keep designs simple: avoiding changes that might push up costs or create more delays