GDF report highlights a year of progress

The GDF Annual Report has been published today and outlines progress of the nationwide programme. Among the highlights are the formation of Community Partnerships in Mid Copeland, South Copeland, and Allerdale, Cumbria, and a Working Group in Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire. These developments provide platforms for early engagement about a GDF.

The report also provides comprehensive information about the potential overall cost for a GDF, ranging from £20-£53 billion depending on a range of factors, such as the specific location, how much and what sort of materials goes into it, and geology. These costs will be spread over the lifetime of the 100-plus year project.

Representing one of the country’s largest infrastructure investments, a highly engineered GDF will provide the highest levels of safety, security, and protection for generations, disposing of hazardous UK radioactive waste that has been accumulating for more than 60 years.

Also included is a summary of international progress in countries such as Sweden, Finland, and France, who are developing their own geological disposal programmes.

Karen Wheeler, Nuclear Waste Services Deputy CEO/ Major Capital Programmes Director, said:

A GDF will be one of the biggest infrastructure programmes in the UK and provide a major investment for the host local community and its economy, as well as being a vital project for the UK.

It is about acting now to deliver for future generations, an essential solution to radioactive waste which will protect our environment, boost our economy, and invest in local communities.

We are now making real progress and having conversations with a number of communities about the potential for them to host a GDF.

The UK search for a suitable site is a nationwide process based on community consent and includes detailed site investigations over a number of years. To learn about GDF and for more information about progress, read the GDF Annual Report.