Wylfa nuclear plant in North Wales ceases operations

The Wylfa Nuclear Power Station Reactor One on Anglesey Island, North Wales, was shut down permanently on Wednesday after 44 years in operation.

“Wylfa has been a terrific success story for Anglesey and for the U.K. nuclear industry,” Wales Secretary of State Stephen Crabb said. “The safe operation of the reactor over its lifespan is testament to the hard work of its skilled and dedicated workforce. I have visited Wylfa and have seen firsthand the wealth of nuclear expertise and eager young apprentices on Anglesey. As attention turns to the decommissioning and clean-up of the site, it will continue to remain a vital source of employment in the local area.”

The next stage for the reactor will be to initiate the decommissioning process, which will include the elimination of fuel assemblies within the plant. Crabb said the site will continue to be an important part of the U.K. nuclear power industry. Crabb said Wales’ economy will benefit from the decommissioning phase.

“Anglesey’s Energy Island can help ensure that north Wales plays a key part in this vision, and the economic revival taking place right across the U.K.,” Crabb said.