The companies said the government's move Tuesday was "a key step in the development of proposals from CGN and EDF for a new nuclear power station at Bradwell in Essex." They noted that the UK's nuclear regulators, the Office for Nuclear Regulation and the Environment Agency, are considered "among the most rigorous, independent nuclear regulators in the world." It was also noted that the proposed Bradwell project is in an early pre-planning stage which will involve many years of investigative works and public consultations before detailed proposals are produced allowing a planning application to be made. Humphrey Cadoux-Hudson, EDF Energy Nuclear New Build MD said: "EDF will bring invaluable experience gained from the approval process for Hinkley Point C's EPR reactors and from our continuing work with the UK's independent regulators. Both EDF and CGN will also be listening carefully to the community around Bradwell before we draw up detailed proposals for the development of the new power station."