UK Government Plans Overhaul to Streamline Nuclear Reactor Construction

The UK government has announced reforms to planning rules aimed at expediting the construction of new nuclear power plants, including small modular reactors (SMRs), which will be allowed for the first time. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need to eliminate 'archaic' regulations that have hindered the country’s progress in nuclear development, stating that the UK has not built a nuclear power station in decades. The new measures will also remove the existing limitation to eight specific sites for nuclear development and establish a Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce to streamline approvals. Supporters, including unions and business groups, welcomed the reforms, arguing they will create thousands of skilled jobs and enhance energy security. However, environmentalists criticized the plans, suggesting they reflect a bias towards the nuclear industry. The initiative comes as the UK faces a critical energy landscape, with many aging reactors set to be decommissioned soon.