Luke Myer MP at Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station

On 13 March 2026, the Government confirmed sweeping reforms to Britain’s nuclear planning and regulatory system, aiming to speed up the building of new power stations, cut costs and strengthen the country’s energy security. The changes follow the independent Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce review led by John Fingleton, which found that an overly complex and bureaucratic system had slowed projects and driven up costs.

Ministers say the overhaul will introduce smarter, more proportionate regulation so nuclear projects can move from concept to construction faster while still protecting nature and maintaining world-leading safety standards. The reforms will streamline planning and environmental assessments, introduce a clearer lead regulator for projects, and modernise the system so Britain can deliver new reactors more quickly as part of its clean power mission.

The changes are part of a wider programme to deliver what ministers describe as a “golden age of nuclear” in the UK. Major projects already under way include Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, alongside plans for a fleet of small modular reactors and advanced nuclear technologies. The Government says expanding nuclear power will help protect households from volatile fossil-fuel markets while supporting tens of thousands of skilled jobs and strengthening national security.

For the Tees Valley, the reforms will have a direct impact. Hartlepool is expected to host up to 12 new advanced modular reactors, supporting around 2,500 skilled jobs for the region and generating enough clean power for around 1.5 million homes.

Some parties are opposed to the plans. However Luke strongly supports new nuclear. He previously spoke out alongside 7 other Labour MPs in urging ministers to adopt the Fingleton Review in full, and has now tabled a new cross-party motion in Parliament recognising the progress and encouraging the government to go further. He said the announcement was a major step forward.

Luke Myer MP, Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland, said:

“This is the right decision for Britain’s energy future and an important moment for Teesside. The Fingleton Review exposed a system that slowed good projects and pushed up costs. I’m delighted the Government has accepted the recommendations in full – and gone further. It shows that backbench MPs working with industry really can drive change.”

Chris O’Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica Group, said:

“We welcome the Government’s plans to implement the Nuclear Taskforce’s recommendations as the UK moves into a new golden age for nuclear. Centrica has a long standing commitment to nuclear power – supporting the existing fleet, investing in Sizewell C, and now working with X-energy to deliver advanced modular reactors at Hartlepool and beyond.

“Getting nuclear right will strengthen Britain’s energy security, protect households and businesses from volatility, and support thousands of high quality jobs for decades to come. Centrica is investing, and the Government’s leadership provides an important foundation for doing so.”