The decision follows a recommendation made in March 2015 by the Planning Inspectorate. The application is the first tidal lagoon proposal to be examined by the inspectorate.

The consent order is for the construction of a tidal lagoon with a nominal capacity of 240MW.

The Planning Inspectorate’s chief executive, Simon Ridley, said: “This was the first tidal lagoon project to be examined by us and a panel of five examining Inspectors was appointed. The examination, recommendation and decision have been within the statutory timescales laid down in the Planning Act 2008.”

“The Planning Inspectorate is committed to giving local communities the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them.”

“Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in the 6 month long examination. This, together with the certainty of knowing when a decision will be made, provides confidence in the planning process and aides the infrastructure improvements this country needs.”

The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation is publicly available.

www.tidallagoonswanseabay.com