Annual Monitoring Report

Hinkley Point C

April 2017 – March 2018

Contents

Introduction 1 Background 2 Summary of Associated Development Work 2017-18 3

The Vision for the Project 4 Dillington Visions 4 The District’s Local Plan 5 Challenges 6

Mitigation Provided by S106 Agreements 8

Monitoring Mechanisms 10 The Transport Review Group 10 The Socio-Economic Advisory Group 12 Operational Fora / Groups 14

Changes to the Project during 2017-18 15

The Project Implementation Plan 17

Requirements Discharged 2017-18 18

Progress Towards the Delivery of the Dillington Visions and Compliance with the Local Plan: Accommodation 20 Community Well-being 27 Education, Employment and Skills 32 Economic Development 34

Conclusion 40

Introduction

This report monitors and evaluates activity associated with the development of the new nuclear power station at Hinkley Pont C (HPC), a nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP), with which Sedgemoor District Council has involvement and influence. The report covers the period 1st April 2017 to 31st March 2018.

The development at HPC presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. It is important that planning matters for the new nuclear development are not viewed in isolation but are considered within the context of the wider development plans for the District. The relationship between these two planning systems must be dynamic to ensure that the District is well placed to capitalise on the opportunities and respond to the challenges arising from the development. The Council works hard to ensure these systems can make and shape places that support local people and businesses and to drive out a positive legacy for the future. The diagram below illustrates the interaction between the two planning systems.

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Background

The new nuclear development at HPC will be the first such facility to be constructed in twenty years and is expected to generate low carbon electricity for six million homes over a sixty year period. Two nuclear reactors are being built at Hinkley Point on the West Somerset Coast and construction on this site will be supported by a number of associated developments, mainly located within Sedgemoor:

 Accommodation campus, Bath Road  Park and ride facilities at Cannington, Junctions 23 and 24 of the M5 (and another at Williton in West Somerset)  Cannington Bypass  The refurbishment of Combwich Wharf

Planning consent to prepare the site at Hinkley Point for construction was granted by West Somerset Council, via the Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA) process, on 27 January 2012. The application is available to view on Somerset West and Taunton Council’s website at this link: https://www.westsomerset.gov.uk/online-applications/ quoting the reference number 3/32/10/037. Site preparation works concluded on 16 June 2016.

The construction of the power plant and the associated development is categorised as a ‘Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project’ (NSIP). In contrast to the TCPA process in which the local planning authority is the decision-making body, planning applications relating to NSIPs are assessed by the Planning Inspectorate and consent is granted by the Secretary of State in the form of a Development Consent Order (DCO). The application for the construction of HPC was submitted by EDF Energy in October 2011 and was published by the Planning Inspectorate on 28 December 2011. Following an examination period, during which the Council and many other organisations were consulted, the DCO was granted on 19 March 2013. Local Planning Authorities are responsible for discharging the requirements contained within the DCO and carry out a monitoring and compliance role with regard to the provisions set out in the Order. A copy of the DCO is available to view on the National Infrastructure Planning website at: https://infrastructure.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/south-west/hinkley-point-c-new- nuclear-power-station/?ipcsection=docs

The Final Investment Decision (FID) was made by EDF Energy’s Board of Directors on 28th July 2016, enabling the execution of all contracts and agreements required to construct the development.

The construction and operation phases of the development have the potential to confer considerable economic benefits upon the surrounding area. A total of 25,000 jobs are expected to be created and EDF Energy hope to assign up to 64% of the value of construction contracts to UK companies. It is estimated that the development could make a £1.5 billion contribution to the local economy during construction and a further £40 million per year contribution during operation.1 Local authorities and their partners therefore need to devise and implement strategies to ensure that these potential benefits are realised.

1 Hinkley Point C Wider Benefits Realisation Plan, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, July 2018, p5

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Workforce numbers at the peak of construction are expected to be in the region of 5,600 people and it is estimated that during this time, approximately one third of the workforce will be drawn from the local population.2 The percentage of local labour will vary across the implementation of the project depending on skills required, and this will be developed and monitored through the workforce development strategy.

There will inevitably be a need to acquire labour from outside the area and the resultant influx of workers has the potential to put pressure on existing accommodation, transport and service provision. This risk has been mitigated through the Section 106 agreements.

It is therefore vital that the Council and its partners, together with EDF Energy, carry out a range of agreed activity to ensure that the District is capable of supporting additional personnel without compromising the standard of living of the existing population or its attractiveness to investors and tourists.

The highlights of the project since its inception can be found in appendix 1. A summary of Associated Development work 2017 – 2018

The Park and Ride near Junction 23 of the M5 is now open and works to signalise the corresponding motorway junction have been completed. Road improvement works at the Bristol Road / The Drove junction, which involved widening the right turn lane from Bristol Road into the Drove, installing a slip road from Western Way into Wylds Road and resurfacing works, have also been completed. These roadworks will improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists and should help to improve traffic flow.

The improvement at Bristol Road/ Wylds Road has not yet been completed and is subject to ongoing discussions about design and implementation. A proposal from EDF Energy on how they plan to manage this scheme has been submitted for consideration.

On 5 March, Frederick Road was permanently stopped up at the junction with Bath Road to ensure that the entrance to the HPC accommodation campus is safe and to ease traffic flow. A new junction, controlled by traffic lights and filter lanes, will be created.

Highway works associated with the Cannington Park and Ride facility are almost complete.

2 The estimated figure for the proportion of the workforce drawn from the local population at peak is taken from the HPC Accommodation Strategy 2011. It should be noted that the proportion of the local population employed at the site is likely to vary over the construction period, depending on the type of skills required.

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The Vision for the Project

The Dillington Visions

While the project was in the early stages of design, Sedgemoor District Council, West Somerset Council, Somerset County Council and NNB GenCo (EDF Energy) signed a Planning Performance Agreement (October 2009). The agreement, led by Sedgemoor District Council, encapsulated the collective overarching vision and objectives for the development and can be viewed at this link: https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/hinkleypc . These were refined as the project began to take shape, to form the ‘Dillington Visions’. Reaching this consensus at such an early stage in the project has provided the Councils with some influence over the way in which the project would later develop, helping to establish a positive legacy and reduce negative impacts. This has been critical to avoid ‘boom and bust’ and to invest in places, educational infrastructure and the wider economy to sustain growth.

A summary of the Dillington Visions are set out below. More detailed information can be found in appendix 2.

Accommodation

Vision: To ensure that the HPC development provides housing solutions that enable workers and their families to integrate into the community and be economically active at a local level, whilst making a positive contribution to the Councils’ Housing Strategies and their wider strategic planning objectives. Partners will work to ensure that the development does not adversely impact on the availability or affordability of housing for the local community. Housing solutions will meet environmental and safety standards and a housing legacy will be created that meets the needs of local people in a range of tenures that they can afford.

Community Wellbeing

Vision: To generate community cohesion and support the delivery of strategic objectives by implementing a comprehensive scheme of community wellbeing and safety measures, which take account of the needs of the communities of West Somerset, Sedgemoor and Somerset as a whole, as well as the needs and impacts of the HPC workforce. Measures will be implemented to promote health and wellbeing, contribute toward high quality leisure and religious facilities and to minimise crime and disorder. The community will be involved in the design, development and delivery of facilities and services.

Education, Employment and Skills

Vision: To ensure the HPC development maximises employment and skills opportunities for local people, whilst inspiring young people to achieve and seek to follow careers in the science, technology, engineering and manufacturing sectors. To support our community partners to tackle worklessness, by together creating pathways that provide opportunities for skilling, which lead to sustainable employment.

Economic Development

Vision: To ensure that the HPC development acts as a key driver for the achievement of a more dynamic, entrepreneurial, inclusive and sustainable economy in Somerset and the wider

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region. The growth of an emerging energy, environment and related technology business cluster will be supported by a growing, highly skilled workforce. The value of the natural environment will be recognised and the County’s positive image as a visitor and investment destination will be maintained.

Developing a Low Carbon Future

Vision: To develop Somerset as a centre of excellence for low carbon use, with a strong business and educational reputation for low carbon and environmental technologies. The region will become a centre of excellence in flood management and will build on Somerset’s existing reputation for waste management by securing appropriate and modern management solutions for waste from the nuclear new build.

The District’s Local Plan

In order for the development to provide a positive long term legacy for the district, associated works must be aligned and integrated with the Local Plan. A brief summary of the Council’s spatial vision for the District by 2032 is provided below. The Local Plan can be viewed in full at this link: https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/1207

 Bridgwater will form a focal point for the district in terms of housing growth and the diversification of the economy. A mixed use urban extension in the North East of the town will provide approximately 2,000 new homes and 90,000 square metres of employment space. The development of brownfield sites will be encouraged wherever possible and the mix of housing types and tenures will be improved, particularly with regard to affordable housing.

 Development in rural areas will be focused on areas designated as ‘key rural settlements’, which have the level of services necessary to support further development. The countryside will contribute to the overall prosperity of the District, while the landscape is conserved and enhanced.

 A thriving and diverse local economy will be underpinned by a skilled local workforce and sustainable tourism will be a major source of local income and employment.

 A strategic and long term flood defence scheme will be in operation (the Bridgwater Barrier), boosting investor confidence.

 Income and health inequality will have been reduced. Sports and leisure facilities will make a contribution towards the development of cohesive communities and green networks will provide a safe and convenient alternative to the car.

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Challenges

The Local Impact Report (2012) (LIR) was prepared by Sedgemoor District Council, West Somerset Council and Somerset County Council and set out the predicted impacts of the development. The LIR was a key document for consideration by the Planning Inspectorate during the application for the DCO and informed the mitigation measures attached to the DCO. The report identified the following concerns:

 An increase in traffic congestion in and around Bridgwater as a consequence of the development, which may lead to negative perceptions of the area, affecting the tourism economy and town’s overall economic performance.

 A lack of adequate walking and cycling paths could lead to considerable reliance on the car for transportation, adding to congestion.

 The affordability and availability of housing options for local residents may be constrained by the influx of workers associated with the development.

 The potential for displacement of workers from established local businesses as they join the HPC workforce, leading to staffing shortages in these businesses. This is exacerbated by the relatively low level of unemployment in the District.

 An insufficient level of skills within the local population (and insufficient resources directed to communities in deprived wards to help residents develop the prerequisites for such employment) could lead to a failure to capitalise on the potential for local employment associated with the development.

 The development may negatively impact the character of the landscape, including Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

 Several of the associated developments (accommodation campus on Bath Road and the park and ride at J23 of the M5) are to be situated in locations at risk from flooding.

 A failure to sufficiently integrate migrant workers into the local population may lead to reduced community cohesion and a potential increase in the night-time economy could lead to increased crime (or fear of crime).

The priorities for mitigation activity were refreshed in 2017/18, to take account of the evolving nature of the project. The Plan identifies the following additional concerns:

 Prolonged or intensified impacts may arise as a consequence of the Final Investment Decision having been made later than anticipated and work relating to the project having been delayed.

 The potential for an increase in traffic congestion arising from two factors:

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o The potential for increased HGV activity along the A38 and A39 for the transport of aggregate due to the delay in the construction of the temporary jetty. o Highways schemes to be implemented within Bridgwater during 2017/18, which may negatively impact on local businesses and investor confidence.

 The delay to the construction of campus accommodation within Bridgwater, arising from the need to agree proposed changes to the accommodation provision set out in the DCO, may place pressure on the private rental sector, further affecting the availability and affordability of this type of accommodation for local residents.

 Low unemployment levels within the District may compromise the proportion of the workforce that can be recruited locally, leading to an increase in the number of people seeking accommodation in the district or using the district’s road networks to travel to work.

It is also worth noting that the HPC Accommodation Strategy (2011) envisaged that the area over which both home-based and non-home based members of the workforce would reside was considerably wider than has been borne out in practice, to date. Original estimates, based on typical journey times for construction workers in the South West, assumed that those already resident in the area (home based workers) would be prepared to travel up to 90 minutes to reach their place of work and that non-home based workers would be prepared to travel for up 60 minutes. However, in practice, those moving to the area for work have tended to prefer to locate closer to the site, creating a greater demand for housing in this area than originally anticipated.

A report entitled ‘The Best Places in Britain for Women’ (2017) highlighted Sedgemoor as the one of the poorer places for women to live in, in terms of income. In reaching this conclusion, both the median income of women living within the District and the difference between their median income and that of male residents were assessed. The median hourly wage in Sedgemoor for women was £9.25, which was less than half the median wage of the top ranked local authority (Brentwood). Furthermore, the difference between median female and male incomes in the district was the third largest in Britain, with men’s median income being 48% greater than the median income for women.3 This data has led to a renewed effort to focus activities on the project to encourage girls into science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM subjects), through the Inspire programme and the Young HPC project, as well as encouraging women into construction. The focus on women has been included in the EDF Energy workforce development strategy and the Council’s own outreach programme.

3 Women’s Hour Report: The Best Places in Britain for Women’ (2017) NatCen

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Mitigation provided by Section 106 Agreements

EDF Energy are contractually obliged to provide funding to mitigate potentially negative impacts that may arise from the development, via legal agreements known as Section 106 (S106) agreements. There are currently three S106 Agreements in operation, linked to the consent for Site Preparation Works, the Development Consent Order and the temporary uplift in HGV movements. The package of mitigation funding is extensive, totalling approximately £100 million. The S106 agreements detail the specific uses to which each element of funding can be applied and can be viewed in full at this link https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/hinkleypc. The mitigation measures with particular relevance to 2017/18 period are set out below.

 A Housing Fund to support initiatives which will increase the housing capacity in areas surrounding the development to relieve any potential adverse effects on the local housing market. The Fund also includes a compensatory payment in the event that the monthly average of non-home based workers residing in a particular area exceeds the threshold set for that area.

 A Noise Insulation Scheme which will enable residents to make noise reduction adaptations to the windows of their properties to counteract any potential increase in traffic noise associated with HPC

 A contribution toward the maintenance of air quality in Bridgwater in recognition of a potential increase in traffic.

 Funding to support the restoration of the Castle House, Queen Street, Bridgwater – a Grade II* Listed Building.

 Funding to support the development of strategic flood defences for Bridgwater on or before the occupation of campus accommodation in Bridgwater and the operation of the park and ride at J23 of the M5.

 Funding to support initiatives enabling businesses to take advantage of the opportunities related to HPC and to address the effects of traffic congestion in Bridgwater.

 Support for the Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership to procure, produce and deliver the Tourism Strategy and Action Plan, which coordinates tourism marketing and sector development in response to the opportunities and challenges arising from the development.

 A Greater Quantock Landscape Development Fund to restore and develop features of the landscape, via activities such as small woodland management and dry stone wall restoration.

 Funding to provide new or to make improvements to existing sports and leisure facilities in Bridgwater and Cannington.

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 Funding toward the work carried out by Council officers in relation to the project in recognition of the additional resourcing the project may require.

 Funding to mitigate any residual, negative impacts arising from the development, not otherwise addressed by the S106 Agreements. The funding will be delivered in the form of grants to local communities for projects which promote the social, economic or environmental wellbeing. Funds were initially dispensed via the Community Impact Mitigation Fund and subsequently, following transition to the works listed in the DCO, via the Community Fund: The Site Preparation Works S106 made provision for a Community Impact Mitigation Fund totalling £7.2 million, a proportion of which was ring-fenced to ensure that those areas most affected received appropriate levels of support: o £2 million for West Somerset District o £1 million for Sedgemoor District – particularly Bridgwater o £500,000 for the Sedgemoor District – particularly Cannington Applications for funding are reviewed by the Planning Obligations Board, which comprises representatives from Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, Somerset County Council and EDF Energy. The Fund was launched in 2014 and is administered by Somerset West and Taunton Deane Council. A list of all projects funded from 2014 and a map showing their location, can be found in Appendix 3. Please note that this Fund is now closed to new applications.

The Development Consent Order S106 made provision for a Community Fund totalling £12.8 million, with £500,000 ring fenced for projects within Otterhampton. The Fund was launched in November 2017 and the first grants were awarded in February 2018. The Awards Panel comprises representatives from Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, Somerset County Council, EDF Energy, the Somerset Community Foundation and includes three independent members. The Somerset Community Foundation administers these funds. The Community Fund is for the purpose of mitigating the intangible and residual impacts of the Project on the communities in the Area of Benefit through schemes, measures and projects which promote the economic, social or environmental well-being of those communities and to enhance their quality of life. More details of the Community Fund can be found on the Somerset Community Foundation’s website at this link: Somerset Community Foundation - Hinkley Point C Community Fund

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Monitoring mechanisms

The various financial and non-financial obligations contained with the S106 Agreements are triggered at certain stages throughout the construction of the project. To ensure that the S106 Agreements are monitored and that triggers are not missed, the obligations have been captured and entered onto an electronic system. The system will automatically notify officers when trigger dates are approaching and reports can be run on a regular basis.

The S106 Agreements contain obligations for a number of monitoring and decision making groups to meet on a regular basis, setting out who should attend and how they should operate. These groups include the Transport Review Group (TRG) and the Socio-Economic Advisory Group (SEAG). The Transport Review Group

The Transport Review Group, which comprises representatives from Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, Somerset County Council, Highways England and EDF Energy, meets quarterly. Its purpose is to review the Travel Plan and Traffic Management Reports produced by EDF and other relevant information and to make recommendations to improve the implementation of the Construction Workforce Travel Plan and the Construction Traffic Management Plan, where appropriate.

In accordance with the HPC Traffic Assessment, HGVs must follow one of two designated routes and travel between prescribed hours, when making deliveries related to the project. Breaches of these conditions are reported to the TRG. If these terms are breached, the driver is issued with a ‘strike’. Drivers who receive three ‘strikes’ are not allowed to work on the project again. The following are examples of breaches that occurred during 2017/18, identified through monitoring and compliance activities:

(There were no breaches in Q2 2017)

Q3 2017

 2 HGVs deviated from the prescribed route and drove through Combwich village. A variable message sign has now been erected in the area, highlighting the junction HGVs should use to avoid the village.

 2 HGVs making a delivery to the accommodation campus, travelled to the site outside of the permitted hours

 A number of HGVs were found not to be displaying the HPC delivery notice in their front windows. EDF Energy contacted the HGV company concerned to ensure the drivers followed the correct procedure for displaying these signs on future deliveries.

Q4 2017  An HGV deviated from the prescribed route and drove through Nether Stowey. The HGV was directed to the designated route. EDF Energy informed the company employing the driver and reissued the regulations to the company.

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Q1 2018

 An HGV left the HPC site after the prescribed hours. The vehicle had been delivering cement but was delayed due to issues relating to the cement feeding system. On such occasions, the HGV should have been held at site overnight.

During October 2017, EDF Energy requested a temporary increase of the quarterly average of HGV movements permitted per day in each quarter to enable HGV deliveries of aggregate material to be transported to site in advance of the completion of the jetty, avoiding delays to the construction programme. EDF Energy sought to raise the quarterly average of HGV movements permitted per day in each quarter from 500 to 750 movements, while continuing to maintain the limit on the maximum number of movements allowed per day. (A movement is counted as travel in either direction. Therefore 750 HGV movements would represent 375 HGV deliveries, for example). The temporary uplift will run until the Jetty is fully operational or no later than 30 September 2019. The number of HGVs on the roads at peak time will not be affected as a result of this temporary change. To date, there has been no increase in the quarterly average of HGV movements per day in each quarter.

The request was reviewed and approved by members of the Transport Review Group, with effect from January 2018. The Councils were successful in securing a substantial mitigation package in excess of £4 million. The mitigation measures will help to reduce traffic congestion and include investment in walking and cycling routes to encourage these modes of transport as alternatives to the car. Measures to reduce any increase in noise and to monitor any increase in the level of air pollution were also included. A summary of the funding awarded is provided below:

 The extension of the Transport Noise Insulation Scheme from the A39 south of Cannington, along the two HGV routes through Bridgwater to Junctions 23 & 24 of the M5.  £2.3 million towards the Colley Lane Southern Access Road and walking and cycling infrastructure.  £250k per year towards highway maintenance.  £250k per year towards resourcing the traffic control centre.  £300k per year towards the Travel Demand Management programme.  £155k contribution toward additional Variable Messaging Signs within Bridgwater.  £99k per year towards the Business Fund and air quality monitoring operating in Sedgemoor.  £50k per year towards a Transport Officer within Sedgemoor District Council.  £7k per year towards additional cleansing along the HGV routes.

The full HGV variation to the S106 agreement can be viewed at this link: https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/hinkleypc

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The Socio-Economic Advisory Group (SEAG)

The SEAG also meets quarterly with representatives from Sedgemoor District Council, West Somerset Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, North Somerset Council, Highways England, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue, the Primary Care Trust and EDF Energy. The SEAG monitors a set of core indicators (relating to accommodation, tourism, the supply chain, health and community safety) which are used to report to government, stakeholders and investors. More detailed monitoring is carried out by working groups and task and finish groups that report to SEAG.

Accommodation: indicators include the average private rented sector take up for specific areas by non-home based workers and the types of accommodation they are residing in; the number of non-home based workers commuting from each of the three districts (Sedgemoor, Taunton Deane and West Somerset) and the proportion of workers that are home based.

In January 2018, the number of home based workers was recorded as being 45% of the total workforce. This figure represents a substantial proportion of the workforce but it is important to note that the proportion of the workforce sourced from the local population is likely to vary over the construction period, depending on the type of skills required. A greater proportion of the workforce were categorised as home-based in April 2017 (54%) than in January 2018, for example. A reduction in the number of home based workers, could put additional pressure on demand for private sector housing, particularly as the temporary accommodation campus in Sedgemoor is not planned for completion until February 2019.

The number of non-home based workers commuting from Sedgemoor to site was recorded as 1,010 in January 2018, which is a substantial increase from the 272 non-home based workers commuting from Sedgemoor in April 2017. An increase in workers commuting to site has the potential to increase traffic congestion. However, the HPC Construction Workforce Travel Plan (2012) makes reference to a number of principles designed to reduce reliance on the car, including:

 Any worker with a place at the Bridgwater Accommodation Campus will be required to use the provided campus bus services  All workers living within approximately 800m of a direct bus stop will be allocated to the appropriate bus  All other workers will be allocated to the specific park and ride site which is closest to their place of residence.

At peak construction, it is estimated that more than 85% of the construction workforce will travel to site by bus, for at least part of their journey.4 HPC has a designated bus service, run by the company Somerset Passenger Solutions.

The average number of private rental sector take up in particular areas is also monitored. If these numbers exceed the thresholds set in the HPC Accommodation Strategy, EDF Energy are required to make a compensatory payment to the District concerned. In July 2017,

4 HPC Construction Workforce Development Plan (2012) p 11

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information was supplied to SEAG stating that the threshold of non-home based workers in Cannington, set at 84 workers, had been exceeded. 172 non-homebased workers were found to be residing in the area and as a result, the Council was awarded £440,000 via a ‘Housing Contingency Payment’. The payment will be used to mitigate the impact of an influx of Hinkley workers into the area, including the delivery of permanent housing, incorporating the regeneration of brownfield sites, which is consistent with the Council’s Local Plan.

EDF Energy have since re-interpreted the definition of ‘latent’ accommodation and the percentage applied to the monitoring data provided to SEAG. This has not been agreed by the Council and remains a point of dispute.

EDF Energy have also introduced a ‘five day rule’ method of monitoring the construction workforce, whereby a ‘worker’ is defined as someone who works for a significant period of time exclusively on the HPC site (i.e. three months or more), will have been vetted and fully on-boarded to obtain a site pass and will be on-site for a minimum of 5 days within any 30 day working period and for a minimum of 8 hours per day. The Council has agreed this as ‘one’ metric but not the only metric, seeking actual figures on a six monthly basis to test the five day rule assumptions and implications on the total workforce numbers per day, which has a cap of 5,600 people.

EDFE have introduced the definition of a ‘visitor’ which may further reduce or mask construction workforce numbers. Re-consideration of this definition is suggested to separate out genuine visitors from visiting contractors/ managers who are actively engaged in the project’s delivery.

Tourism: indicators measuring the number of visitors recommending Somerset; the increase of hits on digital channels and the confidence of tourism businesses are recorded. In January 2018, visitors were still highly inclined to recommend Somerset as a holiday destination, indeed they were 4% more likely to make this recommendation than they were when the collection of this data began in September 2015. The average growth in visits to Visit Somerset and Visit Exmoor websites and other social media platforms is up 7% from the baseline. Business confidence has increased considerably with 46% of businesses reporting in January 2018, that they were confident or very confident that business would be better in 12 months’ time, compared to a baseline of 35% in December 2016.

Supply Chain: indicators including the number of local and regional suppliers registered with HPC and the amount of office and warehouse space taken up are recorded. The data shows that the number of suppliers registered with HPC within Sedgemoor totalled 639 by January 2018. Registration with HPC as a supplier does not guarantee a contract for that company but the figure does indicate that there are a considerable number of Sedgemoor based companies that EDF Energy or its contractors would consider giving work. However, there remains scope for improvement and Sedgemoor officers are working with the Hinkley Supply Chain Team to help businesses better prepare for working on the project and to bring them to the attention of companies already working on site. More information on the HPC supply chain is available on the EDF Energy website at this link https://www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk/

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Community Safety: indicators relate to engagement with the local community, crime, fire and road safety incidents. As of March 2018, there had been a total of 81 instances of reported crime linked to the HPC project and 11 instances of fire and road safety incidents.

Health: indicators include the number of health care staff on site; the number of drug and alcohol checks among staff; the number of private prescriptions, x-rays and physiotherapy referrals and the number of call-outs to the SW Ambulance Service. The data is supplied by EDF Energy. Although the Council is not directly responsible for the indicators relating to health that are reported to SEAG, the Council is a member of the Somerset Health Task and Finish Group that carries out work related to the reported data. This work has included health promotion campaigns to promote sexual health awareness, drug and alcohol awareness and back health among HPC employees. A visit from MIND and the Samaritans has informed HPC workers how to access support should it be required.

Operational Fora / Groups

There are a number of additional and more informal operational groups that meet on a regular basis, which have been set up for a variety of purposes and link into the more formal decision making processes. The interrelationship between these meeting is shown in the diagram below.

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Changes to the project during 2017/18

The evidence, plans and proposals which underpin the DCO date back, in some cases, to 2010. As the project has developed, changes to the original DCO and associated processes have been necessary.

Two non-material amendments (NMA) to the DCO were made during 2017/18:

On 30 January 2017, EDF Energy submitted a request to the Planning Inspectorate to make changes to the accommodation campus provision detailed in the DCO. EDF Energy applied to:

 Provide four additional accommodation buildings (136 additional bed spaces) at the Sedgemoor Accommodation Campus on Bath Road, with 66 additional car parking spaces and motorcycle and bicycle spaces.  To remove the Bridgwater C Accommodation campus, College Way from the scope of the project.  Provide photovoltaic cells at the Bridgwater A site.  Make alterations to the changing rooms next to the sports pitches at the Bridgwater A site.

In responding to the consultation, Sedgemoor District Council encouraged the Planning Inspectorate to make a decision as quickly as possible, to reduce the increased reliance on private sector housing a delay would create. The Secretary of State granted permission for the NMA on 17 August 2017. Full details can be found on the National Infrastructure Planning website at this link: https://infrastructure.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/south-west/hinkley-point-c-new- nuclear-power-station/?ipcsection=docs&stage=7&filter1=Non+Material+Change+2

On 3 October 2017, EDF Energy submitted a second request for a NMA to the Planning Inspectorate to make the following amendments to the DCO:

 Redesign some of the buildings on site, increasing the size of a number of structures including the equipment store and interim spent fuel store.  The erection of additional pipework along the underside of the temporary jetty.  An alteration to the alignment of the sea wall to avoid an existing dry dock.

In responding to the consultation, Sedgemoor District Council requested that the Planning Inspectorate take the following into consideration:

 The visual impact of the interim fuel store on the immediate vicinity and on long distance views.  The need for assurance that the selection of dry storage is consistent with the regulatory aims of the Office for Nuclear Regulation.  A request for assurance that the spent fuel store will not be used for imported waste from other sites as this will create additional movements on the highway network as well as community safety concerns.  A request for confirmation that the changes to jetty construction will not result in further delays to the completion and commissioning of the jetty. A delay would lead to increased HGV movements associated with the transport of aggregate by road, increasing congestion.

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EDF Energy were granted consent for the items referred to above, with the exception of the increase in the size of the equipment store and the interim spent fuel store, on 23 March 2018. The Secretary of State considered that the visual impact of the changes to these stores may have an effect on local people and businesses. Full details can be found on the National Infrastructure Planning website: https://infrastructure.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/south-west/hinkley-point-c-new- nuclear-power-station/?ipcsection=docs

Several amendments to processes associated with the DCO have also been made during 2017/18. These were of a more minor nature than the NMAs referred to above and were agreed between EDF Energy and the local planning authorities, without the need for intervention by the Planning Inspectorate. The following amendments to processes were made during 2017/18:

 During October 2017, EDF Energy requested a temporary increase of the quarterly average of HGV movements permitted per day in each quarter to enable HGV deliveries of aggregate material to be transported to site, in advance of the completion of the jetty, avoiding delays to the construction programme. Please refer to the earlier section on the ‘Transport Review Group’ for more information.

 On 26 May 2017, EDF Energy submitted a request to Sedgemoor District Council to amend the Traffic Incident Management Plan (TIMP) (requirement PW10 of the DCO, planning application reference 96/17/00010). The TIMP details the arrangements that EDF Energy will make to control the movement of HGVs and bus services related to the development, should an exceptional circumstance occur which will disrupt the general, day to day arrangements in place. EDF Energy requested that ‘significant roadworks’ be considered as exceptional circumstances, which would then allow for the potential for movements at different hours to those agreed under normal circumstances. Any such proposal would be considered on an individual basis and would require advance approval. The process would therefore be strictly controlled. The noise monitoring methodology would need to be agreed as part of each, individual proposal, taking careful account of the project environmental statement. The Council agreed to the amendment to the TIMP but EDF Energy have not submitted a proposal to date. Further clarification is being sought to set out the process and decision making more clearly to avoid miscommunication, following a complaint.

 Construction working hours are set out in the DCO and are strictly controlled. Any variation must be agreed in advance with the Council who will assess the merits of the application and the impact on the local community. Should the Council grant permission, it will stipulate that EDF Energy inform nearby residents of the change to working patterns. Any changes agreed in relation to working hours are temporary and relate to relatively short periods of time. A number of applications to temporarily amend working hours were received during 2017/18 (these applications can be found within the list of requirements submitted during 2017/18 in appendix 4).

To standardise the way in which requests for changes are responded to, the Council has created a change management protocol. This will help to ensure the process is transparent and robust. A copy of the protocol can be found in appendix 5.

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The Council will expect the project to continue to evolve in implementation due to changes in circumstances and the introduction of contractors and will consider each proposal carefully. The Project Implementation Plan

EDF Energy are required to keep Councils informed of the progress made towards completing the associated developments through the submission of quarterly updates to the implementation plan for these works.

Scheme Indicative Implementation NNB Highways Actual Schedule Plan Duration Scheme duration Duration (Inclusive of Summary Contingency)

Cannington 21 months 22 months 13 months Bypass Bridgwater A 19 months 24 months 19 months 20 months Accommodation (partial) 29 (partial) / 35 Campus months (full) months (full) Bridgwater C 13 months 16 months Not being built – n/a Accommodation see non- Campus material amendment HPC 16 months 19 months 25 months 15 months Accommodation Campus (on site) J23 P&R 17 months 21 months 13 months 18 months J24 P&R 7 months 8 months 4 months Cannington 10 months 13 months 12 months 12 months P&R Williton P&R 10 months 12 months 11 months 3 months Combwich 13 months 15 months 21 months Not yet Wharf commenced

Combwich 16 months 18 months 21 months Not being built Freight in accordance Laydown with the DCO, Facility TCPA expected Temporary Jetty 15 months 21 months 16 months 26 months

Highway Improvements M5 J23 4.5 months 6 months 5 months 4 months A38 Bristol 1.5 months 2.5 months 2 months 6 months Road/The Drove Junction

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A38 Bristol 3 months 4 months 22 months Not yet Road/Wylds commenced Road Wylds 4 months 5 months 8 months 6 months Road/The Drove

During 2017/18, a number of incidences of fly-parking associated with HPC employees were identified. It may be the case that, had the creation of the J23 Park and Ride been scheduled earlier in the implementation programme, these incidences may have been reduced. Fly parking remains the single biggest complaint area. However, the Council has facilitated the creation of a number of park and rides via the TCPA process (Quantock Lakes, Morrisons and Blackmore Farm) to supplement those already in existence at J24 (via the DCO) to reduce fly parking. EDF Energy are working well to monitor and take action against unauthorised parking and a three stage process is now enforced, with any repeat offenders losing their site pass and right to work on the project. Requirements Discharged 2017/18

When an application is made by EDF to discharge a requirement, a fee is payable to the local authority. The table below provides details of fees received to date.

Financial Year Total per year (£) 2013/2014 9,395 2014/2015 930 2015/2016 85 2016/2017 930 2017/2018 5,347

The relatively low figures for fees between 2014/15 and 2016/17 reflects the slowdown in construction activity while the Final Investment Decision by EDF Energy was awaited.

Sedgemoor District Council has eighty pre-commencement requirements to discharge, is consulted on a further three by Somerset County Council and also undertakes informal pre- application consultation prior to formal submission of the requirement on the majority of these requirements.

From April 2017 to March 2018, the Council received twenty-one pre-applications for advice from EDF Energy. During this period, the Council also received fifty-eight requests for the discharge of a requirement (or amendments to the discharge of requirements previously granted) from EDF Energy. The Council was asked to comment on a further four requests to discharge a requirement by Somerset County Council, with regard to highways works.

The majority of applications received by Sedgemoor District Council to discharge requirements during 2017/2018 related to the Accommodation Campus (Bridgwater A) and the Park and Ride facilities at Cannington and J23 of the M5. These included works regarding lighting, surface water drainage and flood resilience, landscaping, fencing and ecology. The Council also received an application relating to lighting at Combwich Wharf.

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Several other applications received are of particular note:

 Requirement PW10: request for amendments to Traffic Incident Management Plan (application reference 96/17/00010). Please refer to the earlier section entitled ‘Changes to the project during 2017/18’ for more information.

 Requirement PW12: Sports Facilities Management Strategy (planning reference 96/17/00297) required EDF Energy to agree a proposal for a degree of public access to the sports and leisure facilities at the Bridgwater A Accommodation Campus. The proposal was agreed on 5 January 2018 and allows public access 13:00 to 14:00 and 19:00 to 21:00 Monday to Friday and 14:00 to 17:00 Saturday and Sunday.

 Requirement PW7: Sedgemoor District Council provided comments to Somerset County Council on this requirement involving highway works associated with access to the Accommodation Campus (Bridgwater A) on the A39 Bath Road, adjacent to Frederick Road (96/17/00011). Sedgemoor District Council raised no objection to the proposal, which had received technical approval from the Highway Authority but requested that careful consideration be given to the timing of the works in relation to other highways works planned for Bridgwater to minimise disruption. The Council further recommended that a communication plan should be put in place to advise the travelling public and businesses on traffic management plans and potential disruption.

A full list of requirements discharged between 1 April 2017 and 31 March 2018 can be viewed in appendix 4.

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Progress towards the delivery of the Dillington Visions and compliance with Local Plan

(Please note that the Dillington Vision referring to ‘developing a low carbon future’ is discussed in the ‘Economic Development’ and ‘Education, Employment and Skills’ sections below) Accommodation

Use of the Section 106 Housing Fund

A report to West Somerset Council, produced in May 2016, apportioned the Site Preparation Housing Contribution between Sedgemoor District Council and West Somerset Council. The agreement split the funds 68:32, respectively. Including sums already allocated, Sedgemoor received £2,840,000, plus interest.

The DCO Housing Fund Contribution was established with effect from the Transitional Date (16 June 2016). There is a total of £3,500,000 in the DCO housing fund and not less than £1,000,000 shall be paid to Sedgemoor District Council to be applied solely to initiatives within the administrative area of Sedgemoor Council.

In return for support from the HPC Site Preparation Housing Fund, the Council was set a target to create 329 additional bed spaces during the period 1 April 2015 – 31 March 2017. The Council has made highly effective use of this funding, significantly exceeding the target set to create 699 additional bed spaces, via a range of initiatives.

During the period 1 April 2017 – 31 March 2019, the Council is aiming to create 597 additional bed spaces in return for £1,731,263 funding. To meet this target, the Council will continue to use the most successful initiatives employed in the previous phase:

 Empty Homes Grant, including living over shops. This initiative delivered 83 bed spaces against a target of 45 in Phase 1. The properties are leased for a minimum of 7 years, with an option to extend the lease at the end of the term. During the lease period, high levels of tenancy support are offered to ensure tenancy sustainment.  Minor Improvement Grant. This initiative delivered 123 bed spaces against a target of 30 in Phase 1. The fund stimulates new supply and improves standards in the private rented sector.  Lodgings Scheme – rent a room. This scheme has brought 180 bed spaces into use in Phase 1 against a target of 100. A grant is available to bring rooms into use at an agreed lettings standard.  Flexible rent support. This scheme delivered 221 bed spaces against a target of 50 in Phase 1. The scheme enables people to access the private rented sector, securing bed spaces through covering deposits and or rent-in-advance.  Enabling developments by using the Housing Fund to lever in additional investment to support housing development in Hinkley priority areas, which are also consistent with the Local Plan.

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Enabling projects 2017/18

Name Details prior to Total bed Number of HPC investment Total investment Status at funding spaces affordable £ March 2018 Westgate Brownfield, risk 24 9 120,000 120,000 completed House of stalling Former Black Brownfield, 88 20 364,000 3,126,000 funded Horse Inn stalled, derelict, anti-social behaviour Withycutter Brownfield, 33 9 80,000 80,000 funded stalled, derelict, anti-social behaviour 21-35 Brownfield, 104 28 364,000 4,345,644 funded Monmouth stalled, Street Stockmoor Brownfield, 80 22 280,000 3,072,667 funded Village Centre stalled

As of January 2018, a total of 702 additional bed spaces have been created via these initiatives. By increasing the capacity of housing in the private sector, these initiatives are helping to ensure that the influx of workers seeking accommodation does not adversely affect the availability and affordability of private sector housing for local people. In addition, the empty homes grant and enabling schemes are bringing existing properties back into use which is likely to improve the appearance of these properties and may reduce anti-social behaviour.

A considerable number of affordable housing units are being created by the enabling schemes, which the Local Plan describes as a key priority for the Council. In addition, enabling schemes are bringing forward developments on brownfield land, which is consistent with the Local Plan. In a number of cases these developments may help to improve the townscape and reduce anti-social behaviour through their renovation and subsequent occupation.

Funding has also been used to assist those looking for accommodation via the web based search engine service ‘Somerset Homelet’. Landlord training and a Tenant Ready scheme have also received support to help improve the relationship between landlords and tenants, with the aim of improving the experience of renting in the private sector and reducing the likelihood of eviction. Further measures, such as these, help to meet the two main themes of the Somerset Homelessness Strategy which are accessing affordable and appropriate housing and maintaining accommodation. 125 people were helped during Phase 1.

The Accommodation Campus, Bath Road

The accommodation campus at Bridgwater A will provide a total of 986 bed spaces, a main facility building (which includes a restaurant, a gym, two bars, offices and other associated facilities) and outdoor sports pitches. Its location will enable interaction with the local community (via the public use of the campus’ sports facilities, for example) and will input into local economy.

The campus is temporary and will be dismantled following the construction phase of the HPC development as per the DCO. However, considerable work has been carried out by

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EDF Energy to transform the site into one suitable for habitation, including substantial work to remove contamination from the site, following its former industrial use. Furthermore, the site itself is located within the North East Bridgwater Strategic Urban Extension and has outline planning permission for residential development post campus. It is hoped that the drainage, access roads, landscaping and sports facilities can be retained post operation to provide a legacy benefit.

The use of caravan site accommodation

The delivery of campus accommodation has been delayed by the process of seeking a non- material amendment to the DCO to remove the requirement to build the Bridgwater C campus and to make alterations to the requirements relating to the campus on Bath Road (Bridgwater A campus). The Council has taken a proactive approach to this temporary shortfall in the supply of accommodation by removing restrictions on suitable caravan parks to enable them to be inhabited year round by HPC workers for a two year period. Council Officers worked with site owners to evaluate the suitability of a number of sites, taking factors such as transport networks and the proximity to local services into account. The sites were carefully selected to avoid those in key locations frequented by high volume tourism, so as not to detract from the tourism sector. Opening up certain sites to year round use has provided additional income for park owners and the opportunity to invest in their sites to increase future business.

The use of sites in this way will be reviewed to determine whether the period of time over which this temporary approach is employed should be extended or spaces reduced. The number of HPC employees residing in each caravan park is regularly monitored to assess demand and this data will assist the Council with the review. The table below provides details of the caravan parks concerned:

Caravan sites granted temporary consent for year round occupation Location Proposal No of Expiry of units consent Flitchetts Farm, Variation of condition 6 of Planning 20 05/04/2018 Stawell Road, Permission 46/14/00004 to allow a Bridgwater maximum of 20 caravans and all year round use. Lower Lakes, Temporary change of use of land to allow 17 05/05/2019 Chilton Trinity, usage of accommodation by Hinkley Point C Bridgwater contractors. Land at Variation of Condition 4 of Planning 100 06/06/2019 Holmwood Farm, Permission 37/14/00048 (Change of use of North Newton, land from agricultural to caravan and Bridgwater camping site with 100 pitches and storage for 100 touring caravans/motorhomes, erection of shower block, site reception building, warden’s mobile home and formation of access) to allow the accommodation to be occupied by the same person/s all year round to allow usage of accommodation by Hinkley Point C contractors.

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Somerset View Temporary change of use of tourist caravan 84 06/06/2019 Caravan Park, park as accommodation for Hinkley Point North Petherton workers Fairways Caravan Variation of Condition 3 of Planning 155 04/07/2019 Park, Bawdrip, Permission 04/11/00007 (Change of use of Bridgwater field from touring caravans to static caravans, relocation of manager's accommodation and formation of pavement between service station and site entrance) to allow for the accommodation of Hinkley Point workers. Fairways Caravan Variation of Condition 1 of planning As 04/07/2019 Park, Bawdrip, permission 04/08/00002 (Variation of above Bridgwater condition 2 of Planning Permission 1/04/90/14 to allow the caravan site to remain open for 12 months every year) to allow for the accommodation of Hinkley Point workers. Mill Farm, Variation of Conditions 3 & 4 of Planning 52 08/08/2019 Fiddington, Permission 28/96/00002 (Alterations to use Bridgwater of caravan and camping site to allow all year use of Home Meadow for touring units, increased landscaping and use of Glebe Field for caravan storage and recreational areas) to regularise the established number of pitches and to allow for part of the site (Home Meadow) to be used by Hinkley Point workers, for a temporary period of up to two years. New House Farm, Temporary change of use, for a period of 2 87 31/08/2019 Walrow, years, of caravan site to allow for the Highbridge accommodation of Hinkley Point workers Edithmead Temporary change of use, for a period of 2 245 15/12/2019 Leisure and Park years, of caravan site to allow for the Homes, accommodation of Hinkley Point workers Edithmead, Highbridge Edithmead Change of use of land to create a caravan 124 15/12/2019 Caravan Park, site of 124 pitches (74no. static and 50no. Edithmead, touring) for holiday use and as Highbridge accommodation for Hinkley Point Workers and erection of a shop and various landscaping works Inwood Farm, Variation of Condition 4 of Planning 92 05/09/2019 Nether Stowey, Permission 36/14/00011 (Change of use of Bridgwater land from agricultural to camping and touring caravan site) to allow for the temporary use of caravan site as accommodation for Hinkley Point workers. Wall Eden Farm, Temporary change of use of land to allow for 18 31/08/2019 East Huntspill, the accommodation of Hinkley Point Highbridge Workers (8no. log cabins, 9no. pod cabins and 1no. yurt).

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Somerset View Change of use of land to form a touring 18 19/09/2019 Caravan Park, caravan site, with the temporary use as North Petherton, accommodation for Hinkley Point workers Bridgwater Inwood Farm, Erection of welfare building to incorporate 32 05/09/2019 Nether Stowey, shower facilities, gym, recreation room and Bridgwater site office. Siting of 32 static caravans within area consented for touring caravans.

Hotel accommodation

There have been a number of Town and Country Planning Act applications for hotel developments. These applications are market driven and were not anticipated in the HPC Accommodation Strategy. They will be an excellent resource for business visitors to the area and will increase the resources of the tourism sector. A table listing applications received is shown below. It is important to caveat that not all may be built and the Council expect to see a first mover advantage.

Location Number of rooms Mercure, Eastover, Bridgwater 119 Holiday Inn Express, Regional Rural Business 138 Centre, North Petherton Compass House, North Petherton 100 Woodlands Business Park, Bridgwater 123 Premier Inn, Bridgwater Gateway, North Petherton 150 Mansion House Inn, Bridgwater 21 Former Hospital, Bridgwater 100 Travelodge, Isleport, Highbridge 75

Applications for extensions to existing hotels have been received from Blackmore Farm (Cannington), Bower Inn (Bridgwater), Premier Inn (Bridgwater) and The Admiral’s Table (Bridgwater).

Other forms of accommodation

A number of TCPAs relating to permanent accommodation were received during 2017/18, which will help to increase housing capacity and the mix of housing options in the area both in response to HPC and over the longer term. These schemes will benefit the area long after the construction phase at HPC by improving the mix and quality of housing options available to local people.

Reference Location Application details Date Number permission granted 08/17/00105 41-43 Church Change of use from residential nursing 05/07/2017 Street, home to 28 bedsitting rooms and parking Bridgwater 47/17/00002 Richards Change of use of barn for HPC 13/7/2017 Farm, accommodation and then holiday let.

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Stockland Bristol 08/17/00133 10-11 West Change of use of No.10 into a self- 20/7/2017 & 34 Quay, contained dwelling (Use Class C3), Bridgwater refurbishment of ground floor of No.11 to a café and refurbishment of first and second floors of No.11 into serviced apartment en-suite rooms. 37/17/00041 Land off Temporary change of use from 40 holiday 05/10/2017 Huntworth cottages to allow accommodation for HPC Lane, North workers. Petherton 08/17/00201 8 Binford Change of use of offices to 4 flats, Grade 17/10/2017 & Place, 2 listed building. 08/17/00202 Bridgwater 08/17/00200 Castle House, Restoration and conversion of existing 13/11/2017 & Queen Street, building into 3 apartments and parking, 08/17/00199 Bridgwater Grade 2* listed 08/17/00213 Withy Cutter, Erection of 6 flats and 3 houses with 23/11/2017 Wyndham parking – Enabling project Road, Bridgwater 45/17/00031 Charlinch Change of use from annexe to holiday let 31/12/2017 House, or accommodation for HPC worker. Spaxton Grade 2 listed. 08/17/00152 Black Horse Erection of 20 dwellings for affordable 26/9/2017 Inn, Bridgwater housing – Enabling project 08/17/00221 3 Wembdon Change of use from 6 to 7 bed HMO 20/11/2017 Road, Bridgwater 08/17/00104 11 Ashleigh Retrospective change of use of dwelling 01/08/2017 Avenue, to HMO for 6 people Bridgwater 08/17/00212 27/28 Cornhill, Erection of 4 storey building to form 4 no. 9/11/2017 Bridgwater HMO units 51/17/00030 46 Wembdon Change of use from residential home to 25/01/2018 Rise, 24 bed HMO Bridgwater

The majority of applications granted were for properties situated in Bridgwater, which is consistent with the Local Plan and by virtue of their location within the town, should assist in the integration of the HPC workforce with the local population. Several applications were granted for accommodation in the countryside which would not generally be consistent with the Local Plan. However, these properties are to be transferred to tourism use when there is no longer a need to accommodate HPC workers, thereby contributing to tourism provision and benefiting the local economy.

As can be seen from the table above, a number of applications were granted for listed buildings and bringing these properties back into residential use is considered to be beneficial in terms of conservation. The applications relating to Castle House (08/17/00199 and 08/17/00200) are of particular note as funding was provided via the DCO S106 Agreement to support its restoration. The DCO S106 provided the total sum of £231,218 to

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The Save Trust for the restoration of Castle House. The Save Trust used this funding to attract additional funding from other sources and the building has now been restored. The building is thought to represent the earliest known survival of modern reinforced concrete construction in the world.

Environmental health and safety of accommodation

The Council has seen a sizeable increase in the number of properties that have been converted into HMOs and will be undertaking an exercise in 2019 to identify and contact the owners to inform them of their duties as landlords. The Council would also like to inspect these properties and if necessary require the landlords to apply for an HMO licence. Larger HMOs which have five or more occupants that form two or more households and share facilities, such as a kitchen and/or bathroom, must be licenced by the Council. Inspections are carried out to ensure that licensable HMOs are compliant with the mandatory conditions set out within their licence. Furthermore, under the Housing Act 2004, the Council carries out Housing Health and Safety Rating System inspections to ensure properties are free of Category 1 hazards.

As part of the mitigation package associated with the potential for a temporary increase in the quarterly average of HGV movements, the area within which residents are eligible for support from the Transport Noise Insulation Scheme has been extended. The scheme will now include housing along the two HGV routes through Bridgwater to Junctions 23 and 24 of the M5. EDF Energy have chosen to expand this scheme as a gesture of goodwill towards the community as the levels of noise associated with these additional movements are not thought to exceed statutory thresholds.

EDF Energy have made a number of payments to the Council to support the creation of the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier which will provide long term protection against flooding. A flood defence contribution of £40,715.83 was received from EDF Energy on 8 September 2017, with regard to the Park and Ride at Junction 23. A further payment relating to the accommodation campus on Bath Road is expected in the future. Furthermore, despite the fact that the requirement to build the Accommodation Campus at Bridgwater C was removed from the DCO via a non-material amendment, the Council was successful in securing the flood defence payment from EDF Energy that would have been payable on or before the occupation of the campus (£88,000). By reducing the risk of flooding, the creation of the Bridgwater Barrier will improve the suitability of large areas of Bridgwater for accommodation.

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Community Wellbeing

Minimising crime and disorder

A survey was carried out by the Council in 2017 to assess the level of fear of crime among those living in the District. The results showed that local people were feeling safer during the day and night, in both town and village centre settings, than had been recorded in the previous study, undertaken in 2015. It is thought that the presence of CCTV may have contributed to reduced levels of fear relating to crime. The community’s main concerns continued to be anti- social behaviour (particularly dog fouling and littering) and road safety. The majority of respondents were resident in central Bridgwater and were primarily aged over 65 years - therefore the data will reflect the concerns of these sectors of the community in particular.

A licence was granted to one of the caravan sites accommodating HPC workers, Fairways Caravan Park, on 5 April 2017 for the sale/supply of alcohol and the provision of live and recorded music. A number of conditions were attached to the licence to ensure that the local community’s wellbeing and safety would not be compromised by these activities. The licence restricts the hours for the sale/supply of alcohol to between midday and 11pm (Sunday to Thursday) and midday to midnight (Friday and Saturday). The provision of live and recorded music was permitted from midday to 11pm (7 days a week). The following conditions were attached: children must be accompanied by an adult; employees must receive training with regard to preventing the sale of alcohol to persons below the required age and refusing the sale of alcohol to persons who are intoxicated; the ‘Challenge 25’ policy must be adopted; an incident and refusals register must be kept on the premises.

Appointment of Community Safety Officer

A Community Safety Officer (CSO) has been appointed to help build positive relationships with the local community and the HPC workforce. Areas of work include initiatives to help reduce the noise associated shift work; liaison between EDF Energy and the local community with regard to fly parking; communication with HPC bus drivers and passengers to reduce littering; regular visits to caravan parks to help ensure the safety of this type of accommodation. The CSO is working alongside community groups to organise events such as barbeques, open air cinema and youth activities in areas where HPC workers and their families are known to be living to help facilitate their integration within the local community.

Projects supporting community cohesion and reducing inequality

The Council led ‘East Bridgwater Together team’ project was awarded £60,000 from the CIM fund in 2015 and continues to provide a multi-agency response to support vulnerable households and promote the integration of the HPC workforce and the local community. The East Bridgwater Team covers Sydenham, Bower and Dunwear. The Team acts as a ‘one stop shop’ for the community, providing advice to residents on a wide range of issues, including housing advice, financial matters and assistance in accessing employment, volunteering and training opportunities at its hub in Sydenham. The Team is able to offer continuing support to individuals where appropriate on a case management basis, with the multi-agency Team providing a holistic approach to issues.

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In addition to providing individual support, the Team carries out a wide range of community development events, including drop in sessions from EDF Energy, to inform the community of recent activity (such as works relating to the accommodation campus) and to answer queries.

There are two other ‘Together Teams’ that are in operation in Sedgemoor – one covering Hamp, Stockmoor and Wilstock and the other covering Highbridge and Burnham on Sea. In the Spring of 2017 ‘Together Team’ representatives attended an international conference in Toronto to talk about the partnership working model.

The Council-led Under Construction centre, hosts a multitude of partners working to provide community outreach and support, specifically to help local people access training and employment. The centre has had huge success as recorded in the workforce development strategy and in monitoring activity and is now developing an approach to specifically aid women furthest from the employment market.

£5,000 from the EDF Energy Community Fund was awarded to the St Francis Holiday Club in Bridgwater to enable disadvantaged families access Summer holiday entertainment, to strengthen the community in an area hosting the HPC workforce.

Air quality and traffic congestion

The Council has statutory duties under the Environment Act 1995 to carry out assessments of air quality within the District and to report the findings to DEFRA on an annual basis, via an Air Quality Annual Status Report. Should levels of air quality become a health concern, the Council has a duty to carry out corrective action, declaring an Air Quality Management Area and producing a plan for action. For more information on air quality, please refer to the Council’s website at this link: https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/article/1012/Air-Quality

Between January and June 2017, road improvement works associated with HPC were in place between Bristol Road and Wylds Road, Bridgwater. The purpose of these works was to reduce the potential for future congestion and to improve road safety. However, the temporary one-way system, which formed part of the roadworks, impacted upon traffic flow and may have contributed toward an increase in air pollution levels detected at Bristol Road. However, this is one of a number of sites at which increased levels were detected and the levels of pollution are not at a level at which corrective action would be required.

Sedgemoor District Council and West Somerset Council were allocated £15,000 S106 funding to help maintain air quality. This funding was combined with the mitigation resulting from the uplift in HGV movements (please refer to earlier section on the Transport Review Group) to purchase four additional air quality monitors. These monitors are situated along the main transportation routes associated with HPC – Bristol Road, Taunton Road, Quantock Road and Broadway. They will enable concentrations of particulate matter to be measured, complementing the data already being recorded from monitors detecting levels of nitrogen dioxide. A map showing the location of air quality monitors maintained by the Council can be found in appendix 6.

To help reduce traffic congestion and consequently levels of air pollution, the Council is involved in the development of a Travel Demand / Behaviour Change Programme, funded through the DCO S106 agreement. During the reporting period Somerset County Council

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procured a framework to deliver various ‘lots’ of work (or work packages) associated with the Travel Demand / Behaviour Change Programme. The framework has appointed consultants to undertake lots across four areas of travel:

 Business  Education  Leisure  Tourism

To date ‘lots’ or work packages, have been awarded to the business, education and leisure areas with consultants now undertaking work in those respective areas on two year contracts. It is anticipated that further ‘lots’ of work will be put out to tender on the framework in coming years as lessons are learned from those initial ‘lots’ which have been undertaken.

Somerset County Council have also updated the, ‘The Bridgwater Way’ brand, which previously operated as part of the Local Sustainable Transport Fund project in North Petherton, South Bridgwater and Hamp, rolling it out across the town and giving it a broader focus on travel for all purposes, rather than just the achievement of sustainability measures.

Improvements are to be made to the cyclepaths and footpaths in Southern Bridgwater and North Petherton. These works are expected to take place in Summer 2019, following a successful bid to the CIM fund. The southern corridor into Bridgwater along Taunton Road is currently the key route for HPC traffic, one of the two designated routes for HGVs and buses traveling from the J24 Park and Ride. However, the current cycleway and footpath network is fragmented and of mixed quality, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists who do not wish to use the A38, reducing its viability as an alternative to car use. The project comprises a package of physical infrastructure improvements to help close these gaps in provision. By helping to reduce car use, the project will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution and provide a means of promoting health through exercise.

Sedgemoor District Council has taken a proactive approach in developing and shaping such bids and working with the local town and parish councils and partners to gain support. These schemes are now in implementation, providing vital links off the main highway to improve choice and safety, providing a longer term legacy.

Leisure facilities

To help accommodate the needs of the HPC workforce, leisure facilities in the district are being improved and increased.

The HPC Sports Facilities Management Strategy requires that a level of public access to the sports and leisure facilities at the Sedgemoor campus, Bath Road, be made available. Following consideration by Sedgemoor and West Somerset Councils, it was agreed to enable a minimum of 12 hours of public access during the week. The facilities are available to the public on a “first come first served basis” from 13:00 to 14:00 and 19:00 to 21:00 Monday to Friday and 14:00 to 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. The facilities include a full size grass football pitch, 2 polymeric surface multi use games courts (MUGA) suitable for 5 aside football, basketball and tennis courts and an amenity building with toilets.

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In addition, grants to support a number of leisure project were made during 2017/18 from S106 funding:

Location Project Grant £ Puriton Playing Fields MUGA upgrade and improvements 39,117.60 Victoria Park Bowling Club New storage facility 14,000.00 Management Sydenham Short Mat Electric mat roller 5,300.00 Bowls Club Pawlett Sports & Playing MUGA upgrade and improvements 50,000.00 Field Association Somerset Youth & New dingy rescue boat 16,176.00 Community Sailing Association Wembdon Junior Football New football goalposts 6,500.00 Club Sydenham Rangers FC Formation of new team 2,588.00 Bridgwater Amateur Swim coach training 2,260.00 Swimming Club Bridgwater Cricket Club Cricket development 17,000.00

A number of Sedgemoor based community organisations have received support to deliver leisure and recreational facilities and to promote a holistic approach to health and wellbeing:

 A youth club run by the Salvation Army, ‘Youth Space’ received £19,745 from the Community Impact Mitigation Fund.

 The Somerset Active Sports Partnership (SASP) has received £112,235 funding from the CIM to support a project entitled ‘Naturally Active’, which provides a range of physical activities within public green spaces delivered at low or no cost. The project will encourage those not normally active to participate.

 Middlezoy Arts received £5,000 from the Community Fund to improve wheelchair and pushchair access along a popular walking trail.

 Bridgwater Cricket Club received £3,501 from the Community Fund to refurbish the Club’s artificial wicket to enable play in all weathers.

 The Community Fund has provided £4,780 support for a project entitled ‘Men’s Sheds’ which seeks to reduce social isolation and loneliness among men in the Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge area.

 Combwich Motor Boat and Sailing Club were awarded £17,965 from the Community Fund for a Cornish gig training boat for young people.

 Otterhampton Parish Council received £1,119 from the Community Fund for a defibrillator.

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Community information

A number of activities have provided the opportunity for the local community to be informed of the decision making process and the implementation of activities associated with the HPC projects.

Forums have been established by EDF Energy for wider public and stakeholder engagement. Meetings are independently chaired and have representations from town and parish councils and are open to the public. Representatives from EDF Energy and the Councils attend these quarterly meetings and minutes are available on the EDF Energy website: https://www.edfenergy.com/download- centre?keys=&tid=175&year%5bvalue%5d%5byear%5d=

Beginning in September 2017, the local community were invited to attend a series of drop in sessions relating to the construction of the Sedgemoor Accommodation Campus. Representatives from the Council and EDF Energy attended these sessions and were available to respond to any queries or concerns the community may have had with regard to the construction of the accommodation campus.

All applications to the Council from EDF Energy seeking to discharge a requirement from the DCO are made publicly available on planning online and Councillors and Parish / Town Clerks are notified of the receipt of the application. Planning Online can be accessed at this link: https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/planningonline

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Education, Employment and Skills

Training facilities

The Council has granted planning permission for a number of training facilities in the District, which will facilitate investment and secure a positive legacy. These facilities are dedicated to developing the skills required for careers in the energy sector and wider construction and engineering sectors. They will enable local people to access well paid employment and could reduce the extent to which skilled people leave the area for work.

The Energy Skills Centre, Bridgwater was opened in 2011. It provides practical training in engineering, low carbon and nuclear related technologies. The Centre is equipped with a welding and fabrication workshop, instrumental and control laboratories, facilities for computer aided design and CNC manufacturing. An outdoor training area is situated on the roof with green technologies, including a 6KW wind turbine and photovoltaic panels. The centre was the first of its kind to be located within the South West.

The Advanced Engineering Centre, Bridgwater, which was granted planning permission in November 2015, expands and enhances existing training facilities to offer a level of specialised engineering training, with an emphasis on apprenticeships.

The Construction Skills and Innovation Centre, Cannington, replicates real-life construction site including plant, machinery and equipment of industry standard. Construction site behaviours and standards are also learned alongside specific technical knowledge and skills.

The National College for Nuclear (NCfN) located in Cannington at the Bridgwater and Taunton College site, opened in February 2018. The College is one of only two such facilities that will be located in the UK – the second centre will be located in Cumbria. The NCfN at Cannington provides a state of the art nuclear training facility, including a virtual reality environment; a reactor simulator and computer equipped training rooms; recreation and collaboration space and sports facilities. It will play a key role in meeting the national need for nuclear related skills. The NCfN represents a partnership between industry, national regulators, skills bodies and training providers. It is set to revolutionise the way that training for the nuclear sector is delivered, while ensuring that the UK maintains its enviable global reputation for top quality, safe and reliable civil and defence operations, underpinned by a world class regulatory regime and an expert workforce.

The building housing the NCfN has been awarded the BREEM Excellence rating, in recognition of the high level of environmental, social and economic sustainability imbued by the building across its life cycle. This is reflected in the particular attention paid to many factors, including the selection of materials, levels of insulation and transportation methods. A major element of the scheme involves the use of sustainable energy sources, such as roof-mounted photovoltaic cells, together with the considered use of natural lighting and ventilation and passive solar gain.

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Under Construction

The Council and its partners have established an employment and skills centre within the District, known as ‘Under Construction’, which opened in April 2017. Funding from the Union Learn Fund for Hinkley and S106 funding have been used to rent the facilities and provide dedicated officer support from the Council. The centre brings together a range of organisations, including training providers, the National Careers Service (Prospects) and PLUSS (Positive People Project for Unemployed) in a non-branded facility, which serves to remove the barriers that some individuals may perceive when wishing to access support of this kind.

The centre has proved popular during its first year of operation, recording a footfall of 2,515 visits and 785 followers on Facebook. During this period, the centre has carried out 66 events related to training and employment. 462 learners have been supported and 861 sessions dispensing information, advice and guidance on training and employment matters have taken place. A total of 416 jobs have been advertised.

The Centre has achieved considerable success in supporting the long-term unemployed back to work, helping to place 26 individuals into employment with a 100% retention rate. This has been achieved via 1-1 coaching, soft skills training, sector based work academies, work experience and in-work support for a 6 month period.

Other employment and skills initiatives

The Council seeks to enter into a local labour agreement (LLA) with developers of projects which will provide 10 or more jobs or where construction values will exceed £1 million, to agree a percentage of local labour, a training and recruitment plan and a commitment to an agreed proportion of local procurement of services and supplies. It was the first local authority in Somerset to adopt such an approach. For example, during construction of the NCfN 98 jobs were created, 87 of which were filled by employees from the TA postcode area. In addition, there were five work placements for Bridgwater & Taunton College students as well as 433 weeks of training completed by 22 employees. Experience gained allowed eight workers to secure new and additional qualifications at NVQ Level 2 or above and the workforce gained 114 new industry certifications during work on the project. The LLA has been applied to both the construction and operational phases of the project, delivering opportunities for employment over the long term.

A number of projects providing support for apprentices have received support from the CIM fund and Community Fund

 Somerset County Council was awarded £393,849 in November 2017 to support its ‘Education Business Partnership’. The Partnership will consolidate the various sources of careers guidance and act as a ‘one stop shop’ to help facilitate interaction between the spheres of business and education. The partnership will lead an apprenticeship signposting service and will work closely with existing delivery partners, especially the HPC Inspire Education Programme.

 Work-wise was awarded £4,833 from the Community Fund to help support low- skilled people take advantage of opportunities for employment related to HPC

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Economic Development

Business parks

To accelerate the move toward a high value, knowledge based economy the Council has released a considerable amount of land for commercial development. These business parks will serve as suitable spaces for the location and expansion of businesses associated with the Hinkley supply chain, enabling local businesses to capitalise on the opportunities the development affords. In addition, the parks will encourage inward investment from businesses outside the area wishing to become involved in the supply chain, benefiting the local economy. By creating an environment which enables businesses related to the energy, environmental and technological sectors to co-locate, the parks have the potential to accelerate the move toward a more dynamic and entrepreneurial economy, which will be sustained beyond the construction of Hinkley Point C. Three business parks are of particular significance:

The Bridgwater Gateway is currently under development and will comprise 100 acres for a mix of B1 and B2 uses.5 As the site has excellent transport links, being located close to the A38 and J24 of the M5 and includes a four star, 150 bed hotel it will enable companies located there to do business with companies situated at other sites in the region and indeed nationally, with ease. The site represents a £150 million investment and will deliver approximately 3000 jobs. As part of the S106 agreement granting permission for the development of the site, use will be restricted to businesses involved in the Hinkley supply chain to ensure that sufficient space is available for the location of such businesses.

Huntspill Energy Park (now known as Gravity) is located on a brownfield site (the former Royal Ordnance Factory), near Puriton, close to J23 of the M5 and will provide around 2 million square feet of commercial space. The park will focus on businesses that specialise in low carbon technology and energy generation and is expected to provide approximately 4,500 high value and skilled jobs when operational.

The park is one of five sites in the region which together have been designated as an Enterprise Zone by the government. As a result, it is able to provide a range of incentives to attract new and expanding businesses including a five year reduction in business rates and simplified planning procedures. The Zone was allocated in the 2015 Autumn Statement and fully activated in 2017. The site was acquired by the Salamanca Group in 2017 and will provide an ongoing economic development priority to compliment HPC, ensuring sustained growth and employment. Opportunities to attract foreign direct investment on a future proof innovation campus with high value employment will be key to long term economic success.

The Somerset Energy and Innovation Centre is situated at Woodlands Court Business Park, Bristol Road (close to the North East Bridgwater urban extension area). The site opened in 2016 and comprises approximately 2,400 square metres of office space and includes an area for networking. A team of specialists are available to offer advice to the low carbon

5 B1 Business – Offices (other than financial services, such as banks and building societies, professional services, including estate and employment agencies), research and development of products and processes, light industry appropriate in a residential area. B2 General Industrial – use for industrial purposes other than one falling in class B1 (excluding incineration purposes, chemical treatment or landfill or hazardous waste).

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businesses located at the site over a range of areas, including innovation and design, marketing, accessing funding and specific support regarding the Hinkley supply chain. The site, which has acquired a national reputation, aims to use the opportunities afforded by the development at HPC as a catalyst for the development of a low carbon energy cluster, which will be sustainable beyond the construction phase at HPC.

Bridgwater town centre improvements

Bridgwater is the closest and largest retail and service centre to the HPC development and is therefore well situated to capitalise on the commercial opportunities which are expected to arise from the project. However, there are concerns that negative perceptions of the town may arise from the increase in traffic on route to HPC and that this will reduce the appeal of the town as a shopping destination. A project to promote the town centre has secured £116,070 from the CIM fund and utilised £120,000 from S106 ‘Cost of Congestion’ funds. The projects comprises the following elements:

 A range of support initiatives tailored to the needs of individual businesses which will enable them to better meet market demand and improve their digital presence and wider marketing approach.

 Physical enhancements within Fore Street and the High Street, including the lighting of the Town Bridge, in areas that act as a focal point for the small business community as well as the wider town centre.

 Support for existing events and the creation of an additional Summertime event, known as the Bridgwater Quayside Festival, over a four year period

 Connecting the town centre to what will be one day be the world’s longest way- marked circular walk, the ‘England Coast Path’, through signage, promotion and marketing. It is hoped that this will bring additional income into the town.

Initiatives for business

S106 funding is being used for business support initiatives to help local companies capitalise on the opportunities provided by HPC. A summary of these initiatives is listed below (including expenditure to January 2018). Small and medium sized enterprises predominate in the District and many of the initiatives have been designed to suit their needs.

 Supply Chain Support - £25,000 Grants of up to £5,000 for Sedgemoor businesses who have been successful in getting a contract or have a strong chance of being awarded a contract related to HPC. To assist with accreditation, training, consultancy fees, etc.

 Supply the Supplier - £17,500 Match funding for Bridgwater Chamber to the deliver ‘Supply the Supplier’ initiative to assist businesses to get involved with the indirect HPC supply chain. As part of this initiative, developers are provided with a list of local businesses that would be able to

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supply goods and services relating to the development when the developer tenders for contracts.

 Contribution to Nuclear South West - £25,000 A partnership covering the Local Enterprise Partnership areas of Heart of the South West, West of England and Gloucestershire First, working together to attract inward investment. Funding is being used to provide a dedicated person to handle inward investment enquiries and for an inward investment marketing campaign.

 Co-location/desk space @ Somerset Energy Innovation Centre (SEIC) - £8,000 To help build closer relationships with key businesses locating in the SEIC it may be beneficial for officers from the Council’s Strategy and Development Team to have a presence in the centre. However, this was not taken forward.

 Get Business Get Digital - £16,000 Re-procurement of a series of workshops and 1:1 support for businesses in Sedgemoor, West Somerset and Taunton Deane.

 Business Mentoring - £2,000 Re-investing in the countrywide mentoring scheme with Cornerstone Mentoring

 Support to improve food businesses - £10,000 Working with Environmental Health colleagues to improve the ratings of the food businesses in Bridgwater.

 Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce - £5,000 Continuing the work from previous years, to include regular networking events and updates with the local business community arising from HPC

Business unrelated to Hinkley Point C

While considerable efforts are being made to enable local business to benefit as part of the HPC supply chain and to develop a low carbon related cluster, there is concern that established local businesses may lose key members of their workforce if these personnel decide to take up employment at HPC. As Sedgemoor is an area of relatively low unemployment, it is likely that a significant proportion of the local labour force at HPC will have been previously employed in local businesses. The Council’s ‘Under Construction’ facility offers support to businesses affected by helping to place those looking for work in these companies (as well as vacancies at HPC) and providing support to the businesses involved.

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The Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership

Tourism is a key sector in Somerset’s economy, employing 9% of the working population.6

The Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership (HTAP) is continuing to deliver growth and resilience to the tourism sector. Surveys have demonstrated business confidence and the net promoter score of visitors is above target and have increased from the baselines recorded prior to the commencement of the main activity at HPC.

The close of 2017 saw the conclusion of the first phase of the Tourism Strategy (2015-2017) and provided the opportunity to reflect on the success of the Partnership, including:

 The provision of more than £74,000 of match funding for new products, such as work to develop the England Coast Path which obtained £60,000 match funding from Natural England. The use of S106 funding to generate additional funds in this way is highly significant as there has been a reduction in public sector funding of the industry in recent years.

 A £35,000 public relations and social media campaign to promote tourism in Somerset has been undertaken. Over 200 businesses have received digital training and 125,000 visits to websites supported by HTAP, including ‘Visit Somerset’ and ‘Visit Exmoor’ have been recorded over the three year period. The county has been afforded national and international publicity as journalists from high profile publications have been encouraged to visit and, or write about the region.

HTAP have directed a number of campaigns aimed at promoting tourism in Somerset, such as the ‘Wild West’ and ‘Secret Sea Walks’ campaigns in 2017/18. The ‘Wild West’ campaign targeted families and focused on the many opportunities for outdoor pursuits in the area, such as canoeing, wild swimming, rock climbing and camping amongst beautiful scenery. The ‘Secret Sea Walks’ campaign celebrated the Somerset stretch of the England Coast Path with a series of circular trails connecting with it. Several trails are within the Sedgemoor area, including one incorporating the Bridgwater Docks, which takes walkers into Bridgwater itself, encouraging them to visit tourist attractions, such as England’s oldest arts centre and the Blake Museum. A second trail is centred around Steart Marshes, helping to promote wildlife tourism in the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve.

HTAP have also collaborated with EDF Energy to promote tourism within Somerset among the HPC workforce. Articles have been written in EDF Energy publications and a portal dedicated to HPC workers and their families on which tourism businesses are able to advertise free of charge, has been instigated by HTAP. The HPC workforce represents a substantial market for the industry, particularly with its potential for year round interest. Currently, approximately 70% of day trips to the countryside occur in Spring and Summer.7

6 Hinkley Tourism Strategy 2015-20 (Refreshed for 2018) p 4 7 Hinkley Tourism Strategy 2015-20 (Refreshed for 2018) p5

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Visitor travel management plans have been created to provide advice and support to tourism businesses in helping visitors navigate the key roadworks associated with the HPC development. More than 90% of visitors travel to Somerset and Exmoor by road.8

In the last quarter of 2017 the Strategy was refined and refreshed to concentrate on four main objectives:

 ‘Generating positive perceptions’ – a public relations campaign that will strive to counteract any negative press coverage relating to the construction of HPC, that may otherwise detract from its draw as a tourist destination. The increased finances available as a result of the S106 agreement will enable HTAP to expand the customer base by employing a more targeted approach to marketing than has been possible in the past.

 ‘Delivering an exceptional welcome’ – building on work carried out in the previous three years, HTAP will work with Somerset Highways to gain a better understanding of the needs of large tourism operators in terms of dealing with traffic congestion. Visitor surveys will include questions specifically related to travel movements and HPC to enable a better understanding of the impact of the development. HTAP will continue to support Tourist Information Centres, helping them to develop new avenues of income to ensure their viability when S106 funding is no longer available.

 ‘Developing new experiences’ – in recent years, ‘experimental’ short breaks with a particular theme, such as wildlife, cycling and glamping have become increasing popular. Although Somerset and Exmoor have the landscape to support such experiences they do not yet have the supporting infrastructure, such as cycle routes, to realise the potential of these areas. CIM funding, relating to the Brean Down Way and Steam Coast Trail have helped to enhance this infrastructure. EDF’s intention to build a ‘state of the art’ visitor centre will create a unique attraction which is likely to draw in new types of visitor and HTAP have identified this as an opportunity for distinctiveness. HTAP will continue to seek opportunities to use S106 funding to derive additional financial benefits through match funding.

 ‘Supporting industry growth’ – following reductions in local authority funding in recent years, it has become increasingly important that industry bodies, such as Visit Somerset and Visit Exmoor, take a lead role in helping to grow the sector. To ensure that these bodies remain competitive, HTAP will provide investment for the development of their digital platforms. The tourism sector in Somerset comprises a particularly high concentration of small and micro businesses operating within tight margins, when compared to other tourist destinations. HTAP will help these businesses to strengthen their position by capitalising on new attractions, such as the England Coast Path and food and drink tourism via marketing, public relations and business planning support. Opportunities to enhance service delivery will be provided through training initiatives and businesses will be encouraged to take part in awards schemes to raise their profile.

8 Hinkley Tourism Strategy 2015-20 (Refreshed for 2018) p7

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Community Impact Funded project

The Somerset Wildlife Trust has received £159,035 funding from CIM to promote opportunities for recreation along the coast and encourage conservation. The project will also seek to ensure that visitors continue to be able to reach part of the coastal path close to the HPC development, which has been temporarily diverted away from the coast, safely and easily.

Landscape enhancements

The Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership strategy identifies the County’s landscape as the biggest attraction for visitors. The S106 agreement provides funding to support a Greater Quantock Landscape Development Fund to support local communities and individuals to help restore or enhance the natural beauty of the area. The Fund is administered by the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The panel comprises representatives from EDF Energy, Somerset West and Taunton Council, Somerset County Council, Sedgemoor District Council, Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty and Councillors and awards grants of up to £20,000. By November 2017, the Greater Quantock Landscape Fund had enabled the following landscape enhancements, since its inception on 26 August 2014:

 Total length of new hedge planted: 8 projects totalling 2.2km  Total length of existing hedge managed: 6 projects totalling 1.34km  Number of orchard trees planted: 6 projects totalling 165 trees  Number of ponds restored: 3  Area of pond restored: 2,260m2  Number of native standard trees planted: 6 projects totalling 90 trees  Wildlife Meadows: 4 projects totalling 2.0 ha  Heritage features restored: 3

Between April 2017 and March 2018, a total of £17,101 was awarded to four Sedgemoor- based projects, to part-fund a range of activity. In June 2017, a further £53,404 was released from S106 funding to be used as match funding for an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a total package of £2.1 million of works to enhance the Greater Quantock landscape and improve visitors’ understanding and enjoyment of the area. In October 2017, the development phase of the funding was secured enabling the scheme to be fully developed over the next 18 months.

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Conclusion

The Council has been agile and has responded well to delays and changes to the planned implementation of the project. In terms of accommodation, it anticipated that additional pressure might be placed on the private rented sector as a result of the delay in reaching the final investment decision and from the changes to campus provision. Its decision to temporarily remove the restrictions associated with seasonal use at a number of caravan parks has utilised a considerable number of additional bed spaces, provided an opportunity for investment in these parks and has not detracted from the tourism economy.

In addition, the Council has created a considerably higher number of additional bed spaces between 2015 and 2017 than originally expected. These additional spaces will help to absorb the HPC workforce, reducing the likelihood that housing options for the local community will be constrained. However, it is clear from the monitoring data that accommodation demands and impacts are concentrated in Sedgemoor and specifically Bridgwater. The original distribution predicted by EDF Energy has not occurred to date, with the workforce choosing to live closer to site and the bus routes.

The use and interpretation of definitions and the potential impact on data and monitoring returns and the consequent impact on contingency payments, remains a key compliance concern. As such, the Council has updated its enforcement plan and put the policy framework in place, to enable a response to be considered, should this remain unresolved.

In response to the delay to the construction of the jetty and the consequent raising of the cap on HGV movements, the Council and its partners were successful in securing appropriate mitigation. This mitigation, together with other measures being taken by the Council, such as enhancements to Bridgwater town centre, improvements to cycle routes and footpaths and involvement in the Travel Demand Programme, will help to reduce congestion associated with the project and alleviate any negative perceptions held by tourists, shoppers and investors in this regard.

The potential benefits to the local economy are evidenced by the significant number of Sedgemoor based companies registered with the HPC Supply Chain portal, and this figure has continued to grow throughout 2017/18. The Council is working to ensure that this potential is realised by providing support to local businesses to help them obtain contracts both in the direct and indirect HPC supply chain. Support is also being provided to local companies to help them secure work on projects which may previously have been taken up by companies working on the HPC project. The Council has tailored its approach to suit the small and medium enterprises that predominate the local economy, via its business support initiatives and support via the Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership. Construction projects associated with HPC, such as the National College for Nuclear, have given the Council the opportunity to secure employment and procurement contracts for local people, via Local Labour Agreements.

Several ‘state of the art’ training facilities have opened within the District in recent years, following planning consent from the Council. These facilities will enable local people to secure well paid employment at HPC and reduce the extent to which the workforce is sourced from outside the region, thereby reducing pressure on the transport network and the

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supply of accommodation. The Council is also involved in narrowing inequality by reducing worklessness through the ‘Under Construction’ initiative and the Together Teams. Inequality relating to women in employment was not specifically addressed by the Council during 2017/18 but the initiative ‘100 Women First’, which is being developed by the Council, will address the issue in future.

In a number of cases, the Council has used S106 funding to lever in additional funding, increasing the resources available. For example, S106 funds have been used to bring forward stalled housing projects by providing the stimulus for investment by developers. They have also provided a means of generating extra resources for the tourism sector at a time when public sector funding for the industry has been reduced.

In addition to responding to the opportunities and challenges presented by the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, the Council is helping to ensure that the development confers a lasting and beneficial legacy to the District. It is envisaged that HPC will serve as a catalyst in the creation of a high value, knowledge based economy. It is thought that high tech, low carbon related businesses, initially attracted by opportunities in the HPC supply chain, will choose to remain in the district post construction to benefit from the highly skilled local workforce and business park facilities currently being developed. These conditions should encourage further inward investment, generating continued growth in the local economy.

The substantial level of S106 funding has enabled the Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership to take a strategic approach to developing the tourism sector. By helping tourist information centres to improve their viability and supporting industry bodies to enhance their digital presence, the Partnership is helping to create a more sustainable industry.

The preparation works for the accommodation campus on Bath Road have transformed a substantial brownfield site into one suitable for habitation, within an area identified by the Council as a focus for housing growth and economic development. The housing market has responded to the demands of the HPC workforce by becoming more diverse, which will be to the benefit of the local population in the future. Housing enabling schemes in particular, have increased the supply of affordable housing, which is a key priority for the Council. In addition, the renovation of a number of derelict properties via enabling schemes and funding to bring empty properties back into use has helped to regenerate the area. Furthermore, S106 funding will contribute to strategic and long term measures to improve the District’s resilience to flooding, reducing the risk to homes and promoting investor confidence.

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