Concerns have been raised over the potential impact on tourism by a £10 billion nuclear power station project in Anglesey.

The multi-billion Wylfa Newydd scheme is being delivered by Horizon Nuclear Power.

The 10-year long development involves building a new power station built, including two nuclear reactors with a minimum generating capacity of 2700 MW. It is expected to create 4,000 construction jobs, with up to 9,000 workers required around peak period at the end of 2023.

However, the Managing Director of North Wales Tourism, Jim Jones, is calling for Horizon to review its proposals to house thousands of workers in Anglesey's holiday accommodation as concerns have been raised over the adverse impact this could have on tourism.

-- Advertisement --

In two previous public consultations, the developer indicated that it would accommodate up to 3,500 construction workers in a purpose-built workers village complex at Kingsland and Cae Glas, on the outskirts of Holyhead.

However, in its third consultation, Horizon has indicated that it will drop these plans in favour of housing its construction workforce in Anglesey's holiday and private rental sectors. Some worker accommodation – at a level to be determined by demand – will be built on the power station site itself.

Mr Jones said: "The Wylfa Newyd development is a huge investment into the economy of Anglesey and it has the potential to be a great catalyst project. But there is also a risk that, if thousands of workers are housed in holiday accommodation across the island, this could be a backward step for our tourism industry.

"As a membership body representing accommodation providers across Anglesey our job is to ensure our members are aware of the issues at stake and that their views are heard."

Horizon's consultation will run until 22 June.

(LM/MH)