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Wylfa's Nuclear Silence: A Decade of Economic Echoes
30 Dec
Summary
- Wylfa nuclear power station ceased operations on December 30, 2015.
- Anglesey faces job losses and stagnant investment post-Wylfa.
- Small modular reactors are planned for Wylfa by the mid-2030s.
Ten years ago, on December 30, 2015, Wylfa, Wales' last nuclear power source, ceased operations. Opened in 1971, the Magnox station provided decades of skilled employment on Anglesey. Its closure led to job losses and economic stagnation, with the island's economy still adapting to the loss of a major employer.
The site is now in its decommissioning phase, with most radiation removed and structures being dismantled. While current employment numbers are lower than during its operational peak, Nuclear Restoration Services employs nearly 200 people. Plans are underway to introduce small modular reactors by the mid-2030s, a development welcomed by some as an economic future.
However, the legacy of Wylfa is contested. Some residents highlight the long-term economic impact and advocate for renewable energy investments, while others see the proposed small modular reactors as vital for the region's future. Local officials emphasize the need for detailed timelines and community engagement regarding future developments.
