ANTI-nuclear protesters plan to take to the water to object to proposals for a new power station at Bradwell.

The Blackwater Against New Nuclear Group is calling on sailors and fishermen to join them for the protest, on August 9.

Boats will drop anchor at 2pm in the Blackwater Estuary, off the old power station, for a two-hour demonstration.

There will also be gatherings at Monkey Beach, West Mersea and on the beach at Bradwell.

Varrie Blowers, the group’s secretary, said the aim of the protest was to highlight the recreational and commercial uses of the estuary and the way a new power station might affect them.

She said: “It is not clear at the moment what the Government wants from nuclear power.

“We are keen to express our opposition in any way we can. We want boats to display flags and banners from their rigging to make their protest.

“But we also want families to use the beaches, along with birdwatchers and walkers.

“Huge numbers of people would be affected by any new nuclear development, particularly on Mersea, which is only just across the river.”

A recent Government document listed Bradwell as a potential site for one of a new generation of nuclear power stations.

Land next to the former power station has already been bought up by French power firm EDF Energy.

l For more information, visit www.banng.org.uk or call Varrie Blowers on 07932 644482.