There was a shortlist of a dozen or so areas that could be considered for nuclear power expansion. Dungeness was on the list, at the behest of EDF Energy back in April 2009 but when the government released details of the further reduced shortlist Dungeness did not appear. No valid reasons given. We have two power stations one of which has ceased operation and is currently being dismantled and it seemed logical for a replacement be constructed which would coincide with the winding down of the current ‘B’ station. The petition, supported by local Shepway MP, Damian Collins, seeks to get the government to reverse their decision. Under government rules if an on-line petition attracts in excess of 100,000 signatories the House of Commons are obliged to debate the matter.
Petition for 3rd nuclear power station
About the Author: Mike Golding
Born in Ashford a long time ago I have had a lifelong relationship with Dungeness having spent every year here for a fortnights holiday up to the age of 15. In those good old days there was no electricity and hence no radio, no running water and no adequate sewage solutions. Nothing to do other than enjoy the vast expanse of the Ness and all it offered for the young children of that era. Out after breakfast and back before nightfall. There were lakes to swim in. Same lakes to boat on (well old railway sleepers). A derelict school and long disused railway station in and on which to play. Gun emplacements, underground shelters. Sheer bliss. That all ended at 16 when I joined the RAF, finally purchasing a shack – as indeed it was then – in 1971 for the princely sum of £750.00. Only 15 years prior to that we could not afford the £150.00 asking price for what was then known as ‘Windwhistle’, reported to be one of Queen Victoria’s entourages carriages. Still there today, sold last year (2022) and still awaiting planning permission to re construct, but the original structure still concealed behind painted shiplap.
Leaving the mob I travelled, retuning ‘home’ as oft I could, and realistically, only becoming a permanent fixture since 1977. In those days there was a vibrant community here with annual gatherings for the Mayday festival – spit roast and all and open days at the Lifeboat station – with bosuns chairs, zip wires to keep the kids happy. I think Health and Safety put paid to that and other activities, as did the moving away of many locals. The result of which , today there are probably less than 20 families residing here permanently, (I have been told not to use the word ‘shacks’ as now, at £650,000.00 plus they are 'desirable bungalows in a well sought after locale'. So ‘Shacks’ they are! End.
P.S A few originals left to rent from £500 per week.
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