Concerns over the weakness of infrastructure exposed by the planned new nuclear power plant at Hinkley Point have been officially lodged by Taunton Deane Borough Council.

The council, which broadly supports the new station, Hinkley C, has voiced its concerns in representations to the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) which will decide the application.

In its submission, the council backed the new reactor in principle, recognising the potential economic and social benefits it will bring.

But it said it had reservations over the impact on local roads: junctions 25 and 26 on the M5, the A358 and the A38 corridor between Taunton and Bridgwater as well as the roads across the Quantock Hills to the coast.

Coun Mark Edwards, who holds the planning policy portfolio, said: “Taunton Deane is generally supportive of the plans for Hinkley C. However, we do need to recognise that there will be many issues for the local communities and we would not be serving our people if we did not highlight the concerns we have and make sure our voice continues to be heard throughout the planning stages of what is one of the largest construction projects in Europe.”

Somerset County Council has also raised concerns that EDF Energy’s plans lack sufficient detail in key areas such as transport, tourism and accommodation.