30th January 2025
Following from Nuclear Wast Services:
Surface Area of Focus
Through the application of the Areas of Focus methodology, a number of potentially suitable and less constrained areas were identified in the South Copeland Search Area. Further consideration of this area, that took into account NWS’ Siting Factors, as well as community and programme considerations, resulted in the identification of a Surface Area of Focus at the Land West of Haverigg, which NWS will prioritise and consider further at this time.
Land West of Haverigg
This Surface Area of Focus is to the west of Haverigg, between the Lake District National Park (LDNP) and the coast. This land is approximately 3.5km2. The area is bounded by the LDNP and Cumbrian Coast Railway Line to the north and east, and the coastline in the west and south. Whilst maintaining the feasibility of the Surface Area of Focus, we have sought to minimise the number of included residential properties. A buffer of approximately 500 metres has been applied from the urban areas of Millom and Haverigg. Kirksanton has also not been included in the Surface Area of Focus. Other considerations mean that HMP Haverigg, Kirksanton Moss Nature Reserve and the Duddon Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest are not included within the Area of Focus.
Accessway Area of Focus
Applying the Areas of Focus methodology, we have identified a potential accessway within which the connection tunnels could be constructed joining the Sub-surface Area of Focus to the Surface Area of Focus. This is significantly wider than will be required to allow for flexibility; it is currently estimated the final accessway will be between 250-500m wide. For the onshore part of the accessway, we have sought to avoid passing directly beneath Haverigg and HMP Haverigg.
Other areas NWS considered in the Search Area
One other area was looked at; however, NWS is not prioritising it at this stage for the following reasons: Land Northeast of LLW Repository
This area is approximately 3.5km2 and is to the northeast of the LLW Repository site. The LLW Repository is the only national repository of its type and its continued operation is fundamental to supporting the UK nuclear estate. NWS considers that an Area of Focus so close to the LLW Repository site could potentially impact ongoing operation of the site.