DevCo Director, Great British Energy – Nuclear.
A new partnership between Anglesey Council and Great British Energy – Nuclear will focus on delivering local benefits and responsible project delivery of the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) at Wylfa.
A formal Collaboration Agreement has now been signed between both organisations which aims help realise the full potential of new nuclear build across North Wales.
Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBEN) is the government delivery body dedicated to supporting the development and deployment of new nuclear technologies in the UK.
Through strengthening its partnership with GBE‑N, the council said it wants to ensure that Anglesey remains at the heart of discussions and decision‑making throughout the entire project lifecycle.
It added that the agreement reflects its long‑standing commitment to collaborative, constructive relationships with key partners involved in strategic developments on the Island.
Anglesey Chief Executive, Dylan J. Williams, said:
“As an authority with extensive experience of major energy proposals, we bring considerable technical expertise, local knowledge and an in‑depth understanding of the Island’s communities. This experience places us in a strong position to influence GBE‑N and its contractors in ways that maximise local and regional benefits, ensure responsible project delivery and protect the Island’s unique characteristic, culture and the Welsh language.
“The potential economic, social, cultural and environmental opportunities associated with the proposed SMR programme are significant. We’re determined to make sure Anglesey is fully equipped to take advantage of these opportunities – whether in new jobs, skills pathways, local supply chain growth, improved infrastructure, or long‑term community investment.”
The council added that it recognises that the scale of the SMRs project brings risks that must be carefully managed. The Island’s communities, environment and cultural heritage must be central considerations at every stage, it said, from detailed design and consenting to construction, operation and beyond.
This formal collaboration will allow the council to work proactively with GBE‑N to identify, avoid and mitigate potential adverse impacts, ensuring that development is undertaken responsibly, sustainably and with sensitivity to local needs, the local authority said.
Anglesey Council Leader and Economic Development portfolio holder, Councillor Gary Pritchard, welcomed the collaboration agreement with Great British Energy – Nuclear.
Cllr Pritchard said:
“This agreement formalises our commitment to work closely with GBE‑N as they explore the delivery of SMRs at Wylfa. Our priority is clear – to secure the best possible outcomes for the people of Anglesey, while ensuring any risks are properly managed and the Island’s voice is heard throughout the development process.
“We look forward to continuing this constructive partnership and to ensuring that the project brings lasting, positive benefits to Anglesey and its communities.”
Kenny Douglas, DevCo Director, GBE-N, added:
“I’m incredibly proud to sign this agreement on behalf of GBE-N. In the months since Wylfa was announced as our primary development site, I have seen first-hand the passion there is to maximise the benefits of our project for the people of Anglesey. It is our responsibility to deliver on that potential, and GBE-N looks forward to working with the Isle of Anglesey County Council over the years to come.”
