• 17 January 2026
• 2 Comments

What is the Nuclear Regulatory Review and why it matters

The Nuclear Regulatory Review is a government-commissioned review in the United Kingdom that looks at how nuclear power projects are regulated and approved. The government says it wants to make it faster and cheaper to build new nuclear power stations so that the UK can secure reliable low-carbon energy and support climate goals.

Although it may sound technical, the review matters to many people because it could change environmental protection rules that affect wildlife and landscapes. This is why organisations such as The Wildlife Trusts are encouraging members of the public to learn about it and take part in the discussion. You can read more about their campaign here: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/get-involved/campaign-us/nuclear-regulatory-review

What the review proposes

The review argues that current rules make nuclear projects slow and costly to deliver. To address this, it suggests changing how environmental laws and planning rules are applied to nuclear developments.

One of the most discussed proposals is to alter how the Habitats Regulations are used. These regulations help protect internationally important sites for wildlife and require developers to avoid or limit harm to those habitats. Under the proposed changes, nuclear projects might not have to meet the same level of environmental assessment or protection before going ahead.

The review also recommends removing a legal requirement that public bodies must actively protect and enhance National Parks and National Landscapes when making decisions about projects. This duty helps ensure that development respects the natural qualities of these special places.

Why this could affect more than nuclear power

Although the review focuses on nuclear energy, it could set a precedent for other sectors. Government discussions have hinted that similar changes might later be applied to transport, energy grids and other major infrastructure. If environmental safeguards are weakened for nuclear projects, that could influence how other developments are regulated.

Environmental protections such as the Habitats Regulations are not simply bureaucratic checks. They are based on scientific evidence and the UK’s commitments to international agreements on nature conservation and biodiversity. Many environmental groups are concerned that weakening these safeguards could lead to harm to wildlife and habitats that are already under pressure.

Why nature groups are concerned

The Wildlife Trusts and other conservation organisations point out that nature in the UK has declined significantly over recent decades. Strong laws that protect habitats, species and landscapes have helped prevent further loss. Weakening these protections could put nature at greater risk, with long-term consequences for ecosystems, public enjoyment of nature and climate resilience.

What public engagement means

The Nuclear Regulatory Review’s recommendations are not yet government policy. They are proposals that the government may choose to adopt or change. Public engagement through consultations, campaigns and responses helps government understand what people think and value. When members of the public take part in these processes, they add their voice to debates that shape laws and planning decisions.

Getting involved does not require expert knowledge. It simply means taking time to understand the issues, consider what matters to you and let policymakers know. Once legal protections are changed, returning them later can be difficult, so early engagement is important.

What is at stake

At its heart, the review raises a basic question about how the UK balances energy needs, climate goals and environmental protection. Should the country prioritise speed and cost in delivering major projects? Or should it ensure that strong safeguards for wildlife and landscapes remain in place alongside efforts to reduce carbon emissions?

The outcome of this review could influence the future of planning, nature conservation and infrastructure development in the UK. Understanding what is proposed and why it matters gives people a chance to have a say in decisions that will affect the natural environment and communities for many years.

You can find further information and links to resources at this campaign page:

https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/get-involved/campaign-us/nuclear-regulatory-review