RADIOACTIVE waste will not be stored in Allerdale it has been announced, after initial assessments have found that the area is 'not suitable' for a new geological disposal facility (GDF) site.

Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) has been engaging with the Allerdale community about the potential for hosting a GDF to dispose of the UK’s most radioactive waste.

Following a 'comprehensive and robust evaluation of information' it was concluded only a limited volume of suitable rock was identifiable and the geology in the area was unlikely to support a post closure safety case.

NWS has therefore taken the decision not to take Allerdale further in the search for a suitable site to host a GDF.

Initial assessments of existing data and information for the other three communities in the siting process have indicated potentially suitable geology, which is why NWS is continuing in the siting process with those communities.

Corhyn Parr, CEO for NWS, said: “After careful consideration NWS has reached a decision not to take Allerdale further in our search for a suitable site to host a GDF.

“We need enough suitable geology to accommodate a GDF and to support safety cases to build, operate, and close the facility. Our assessments show evidence of limited volume of suitable rock for a GDF in the Allerdale search area, including the adjacent inshore area.

“We wish to thank the community partnership and the chair for their hard work, time, and commitment. They have been instrumental in active local engagement and working with community groups who we have been able to support through NWS community funds.

“There is a positive legacy to the Allerdale community’s participation in the process, with around £2million in GDF Community Investment Funding supporting over 50 local projects which we will continue to support.

“We’re engaging with three other communities about hosting a GDF, with site evaluation work underway in these areas.

"The door also remains open for new communities to join the process.”

Reacting to the news that the Nuclear Waste Services have decided to not proceed with Allerdale as being a suitable site for a GDF, Cllr Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council said: “Talks of a GDF site here in Cumberland have been ongoing for more than ten years with differing views and opinions from many.

"I’m pleased that we finally have a resolution to part of the plans for where the waste will be stored and we know where we stand in terms of it not being in Allerdale.

"I’ve always been open to the process and we represent our community on the partnership for the proposed Copeland sites. Ultimately, NWS need to find a plan for this waste and where it can be safely stored, whether that be in Cumberland or elsewhere.

"I await with interest further news on their plans.”