ONE of Scotland’s two nuclear power plants is being permanently shut down, almost 46 years after it started generating electricity.

Bosses at Hunterston B in North Ayrshire said that it had produced enough energy to power every home in Scotland for nearly 31 years since it began operating.

The plant was originally intended to generate electricity for 25 years, but investment in the site, run by EDF Energy, meant that its lifespan was extended.

Environmental campaigners described the final shutdown of Hunterston B as “inevitable.”

WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said that the plant had become “increasing unreliable” and that growth in renewable energy meant nuclear power was no longer required.

However, GMB Scotland secretary Louise Gilmour said that the plant’s closure should not spell the end of Scotland’s nuclear power industry, adding: “This is a viable low-carbon industry that can help create and sustain the domestic energy production and employment opportunities we need to play our part in confronting the climate crisis.”

EDF said that every member of staff who had expressed a desire to continue working at Hunterston B had secured a role in the defuelling.