Introduction
The UK has accumulated a substantial legacy of radioactive waste from a variety of different nuclear programmes, both civil and defence-related. Some of this waste is already in storage, but most will only become waste over several decades as existing nuclear facilities are decommissioned.
The government is committed to implementing a safe solution for the management of higher activity radioactive waste (both legacy and any that might arise from a new nuclear programme) that:
- ensures the long term protection of people and the environment
- does this in an open and transparent way
- is based on sound science
- uses public monies effectively
Following a thorough review, experts have advised that geological disposal, coupled with safe and secure interim storage, is the best option. Geological disposal is internationally recognised as the preferred approach for the long-term management of higher activity radioactive waste.
Government is using an approach based on voluntarism and partnership to site a geological disposal facility with the first stage being local communities expressing an interest in entering discussions about the siting process. The construction and operation of a facility will be a multi-billion pound, high technology project that will provide skilled employment for hundreds of people over many decades.
The invitation for communities to express an interest is still open and DECC is happy to answer questions, attend meetings or provide presentations to those who want to know more. We can be contacted on radioactivewaste@decc.gsi.gov.uk or 0300 068 6111.
Current expressions of interest
Since 2008, there have been three ‘expressions of interest’ (Copeland and Allerdale Borough Councils and Cumbria County Council) for the areas of Allerdale and Copeland. These authorities are working together through the West Cumbria MRWS Partnership to consider whether or not to move into the siting process itself.
Recent news
28 June 2011: First Annual Report on the MRWS programme published
Government published its first Annual Report to Parliament on the MRWS programme on 28 June 2011. This sets out some of the background to the programme as well as the good progress made throughout 2010-11: