As the United Kingdom advances its next generation of nuclear infrastructure, planning and regulatory services are becoming a critical component of project delivery. Jacobs has been selected by Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) to support planning and consenting activities for proposed small modular reactor (SMR) developments.
Under the appointment, Jacobs will provide strategic planning, land-use support and consent management to help advance approvals for new SMR projects.
The initial scope covers the proposed Gwyndod site, formerly known as Wylfa Newydd, and the Oldbury-on-Severn site, with the potential to expand services to additional future nuclear locations.
Working with planning consultancy Quod, Jacobs will support Development Consent Order applications, Town and Country Planning Act submissions and post-application activities. The work also includes engagement with planning authorities, regulators, local communities and other stakeholders.
The contract includes socio-economic, traffic and transportation assessments to inform planning decisions and evaluate regional impacts associated with the proposed developments.
Jacobs will also assist with statutory consultation activities and planning documentation intended to support regulatory review and project approvals.
The appointment builds on Jacobs' long-standing involvement in the U.K. nuclear sector, including work on projects such as Sizewell C, Hinkley Point C and Sellafield. The company was also recently selected to provide environmental services for potential SMR development at the Oldbury site.
Governments are increasingly exploring small modular reactors as part of long-term energy and decarbonization strategies. For construction owners, engineering firms and infrastructure contractors, early-stage planning, permitting and stakeholder engagement play a vital role in advancing major energy projects from concept through construction while addressing regulatory and community requirements.
Source: Jacobs.
