Sellafield contractors have walked off the site at lunchtime today over an alleged safety dispute.

Workers on the BEP project have walked following an alleged safety related issue that happened over the weekend.

Copeland Borough Council's portfolio holder for nuclear and corporate services, David Moore, confirmed that contractors had walked off site.

A Sellafield Ltd spokesperson said: "We are aware of an industrial relations issue involving contractors at the Sellafield site.

“Those involved are not employees of Sellafield Ltd and therefore we do not have a formal role in any negotiations.

“We are monitoring the situation and we will take any necessary steps to ensure that safety, security, and operations are unaffected."