Chinese-built reactor at Bradwell could have 'major impact' on estuary

Plans for new Essex plant alarm conservationists and come on top of worries about security implications of China's involvement in UK nuclear industry

Conservation charities have expressed alarm at plans for a Chinese-built nuclear power station in Essex, with one saying the plant could have "major impacts" on the estuary location, a haven for birds and marine life.

The new reactor in Bradwell, on the heavily protected Blackwater estuary, east of Chelmsford, could be confirmed this week during a state visit to Britain by China's president, Xi Jinping.