Hinkley Point C boss leaves project

The new nuclear plant will be built next to two existing facilities at Hinkley Point in Somerset

The man in charge of Britain's first new nuclear power plant in 20 years is to leave the project.

Chris Bakken, the project director for Hinkley Point C in Somerset, will take up a new role at US energy company Entergy in April.

EDF Energy said he had decided to return to his home country to pursue "new professional opportunities" and spend more time with his family.

He has been in charge of the £18bn Hinkley Point C project since 2011.

A final investment decision for the nuclear project was postponed by EDF Energy last month.

Hinkley is due to start generating power in 2025, and is expected to provide 7% of the UK's electricity once it is running.