THE first nuclear reactor to be built for a a British power station in more than 30 years has been delivered to Hinkley Point C.

The 100-feet long, 500 tonnes, reactor will be able to power about three million homes and is one of two which will be used at Hinkley C, which is due to start generating electricity in mid-2027.

The ‘reactor pressure vessel’ is a high-strength steel cylinder which will contain the nuclear fuel and the chain reaction needed to make heat, which creates high pressure steam for the world’s largest turbines.

Hinkley Point C nuclear reactor nuclear power EDF electricity
The reactor arrives at Combwich Wharf, on the River Parret. EDF

It was made by Framatome, in France, in the same factory which made the last UK nuclear reactor for Sizewell B, in Suffolk, which became operational in 1995.

The reactor arrived in Britain at Avonmouth Docks, Bristol, before being transported by barge to Combwich Wharf, on the River Parrett.

The final part of the journey, four miles by road, took five hours on a transporter to reach its permanent home on the construction site.

Its arrival marks a significant milestone for Hinkley C, where more than 8,000 workers are now on site every day.

It will be installed in the reactor building after the dome is lifted into place.

Hinkley C is seen as vital in helping the UK to achieve its net zero carbon target and to strengthen the country’s energy security.