ANTI-nuclear campaigners are warning that direct action – currently being threatened at another proposed nuclear development site – could be used against plans for Sizewell C.

Protesters are gearing up for what is billed as a “mass trespass” at the site earmarked for the Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset.

It is being organised by the Stop New Nuclear Alliance and is scheduled to be the culmination of a protest camp over the weekend of October 6/7.

Pete Wilkinson, a Suffolk-based environment consultant and member of the Sizewell Stakeholder Group, said direct action could eventually be used against plans for Sizewell C if the Government, the nuclear industry and local authorities did not provide all relevant information and properly canvass, and act upon, the views of local people.

“If people think that development is being foisted on them against their wishes then direct action could be justifiable,” he said. Charles Barnett, chairman of the Shut Down Sizewell Campaign, said incidents of direct action, including a mass trespass, had been carried out at Sizewell B.

Nancy Birch, spokeswoman for the Stop New Nuclear Alliance, said the Hinkley protest would include a parade through nearby Bridgewater with “symbolic” barrels of radioactive waste.

A spokesman for EDF Energy, which is tabling the plans for Hinkley and Sizewell, said they believed low-carbon nuclear energy had a vital role in maintaining UK electricity supplies.

“We appreciate the support of the large majority of local residents, who recognise the contribution that Sizewell B makes to the area,” he said. “The Sizewell C project is still at an early stage. We intend to launch our public consultation in November when everyone will be able to comment on our plans.”