BREAKING: Plans for a new nuclear plant on Anglesey have just strengthened the case for a third Menai crossing, according to Wales’ First Minister, Eluned Morgan. The UK Government’s recent announcement confirms that the Wylfa site will host the first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) plant in the UK, marking a significant development in energy production.
This urgent update comes in the wake of the previous failed attempt to develop a large-scale plant after Hitachi and the UK Government were unable to secure funding. With the announcement, attention now turns to the critical infrastructure needs of the region, especially as the third crossing over the Menai Strait has been on the agenda for years.
The existing Menai Suspension Bridge has faced closures and roadworks, exacerbating traffic issues. During this critical time, the construction of the SMR site will add further strain to the already busy road network. “The case for a third Menai crossing becomes stronger with this kind of investment in North Wales,” Morgan stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing infrastructure needs.
The First Minister outlined the potential economic impact of the Wylfa project, highlighting that it could create up to 3,000 jobs during construction. This job creation is crucial for local communities, especially for those who previously faced job losses when the original Wylfa plant closed. “We need to ensure that this time, young people are prepared for jobs that will exist,” she stated.
The anticipated job growth does not stop with the nuclear plant. Morgan underscored the establishment of a new AI growth zone nearby, which is expected to generate thousands more jobs, further enhancing the region’s economic landscape. “We’re talking about a future where Anglesey thrives again,” she added.
In addition to discussing infrastructure, Morgan also addressed improvements to the existing Brittania Bridge and the wider A55 road. “Good progress has been made on the appraisal work,” she noted, confirming that initiatives like wind deflectors are on the list for future upgrades.
Last week, the Welsh Government convened the country’s first investment summit, attended by global leaders including the Prince of Wales and representatives from tech giants like Nvidia and Vodafone. Morgan emphasized the importance of making Wales an attractive place for business, stating, “We want to be the fastest place to get planning permission in the UK.”
To further stimulate investment, Morgan revealed that she has been in discussions with Rolls Royce about expediting the manufacturing of the SMRs locally. “We are already seeing if we can land that additional investment into Wales,” she confirmed, highlighting the urgency of fostering strong relationships with key industry players.
The First Minister’s commitment to improving infrastructure and job training reflects a broader strategy to revitalize North Wales, making it a hub for advanced manufacturing and life sciences. “We have the best compound semiconductor cluster in the world,” she stated, emphasizing Wales’ critical role in global technology.
As developments continue to unfold, the urgency for a third Menai crossing is clearer than ever. The local community is urged to stay informed and engaged as plans evolve.
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