Public warning over Didcot power station demolition

DESPITE the planned 3 – 5am demolition of the three south cooling towers at Didcot power station on Sunday (27/7), many people across Oxfordshire are making plans on where to get the best view, and today the district council has published safety warnings.

The Didcot towers from Great Haseley windmill – a view that will soon be gone; Image by Peter Matthews

In its statement, SODC says: “The demolition contractors are recommending that people stay inside and watch the blow down, which is being streamed live on the internet at tinyurl.com/didcotpowerstation, from the warmth and safety of their homes. It’s clear though that many people view this as a historic occasion and intend to be there whatever the time.

“There are safety issues to be considered if people do intend to go to Didcot and the district councils are asking people to plan their arrangements to take account of road closures and the likely direction of dust clouds. A local organisation has realised their locations are likely to get a lot of visitors during the demolition, so they’re arranging for people to view it safely from organised viewing areas.

Earth Trust, the charity that looks after Wittenham Clumps, anticipating a lot of people will want to look for a lofty, panoramic view of the power station, is opening its car park to visitors from midnight on Saturday/Sunday 26-27, to prevent people from parking on the narrow country lanes. A local food vendor will be selling hot food and drinks. Earth Trust is asking people using its car park to make a charitable donation. South Oxfordshire District Council has made a financial contribution to Earth Trust to help them manage the situation.”

SODC is asking people to be sensible and not to take risks and to look after friends and family and are offering several pieces of advice to residents. See: http://www.southoxon.gov.uk/news/2014/2014-07/didcot-power-station-demolition

SOURCE: SODC statement