PROTESTORS attended an event in Haverigg to protest the proposed siting of a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) off the coast of Copeland.

20 locals from a newly created group called Millom and District Against Nuclear Waste Dump attended an information event held by The South Copeland GDF Community Partnership.

They state: “Although some of the waste is stored at Drigg (less dangerous) and Sellafield (more serious) the proposed new site will receive all waste from all 20 facilities around the country and will arrive by train – it will be one of the biggest in the world and the first in the UK. Millom and Haverigg have been put forward to host this GDF facility.”

The most pressing concern for the group is the use of Martine Geophysical surveys which will last for four weeks – fearing the effect that it will have on marine life.

But Ged McGrath, chair of South Copeland GDF Community Partnership, said: “The Community Partnership’s role is to ensure that the community has all of the relevant information that they need. We’re holding events at locations in South Copeland to provide an opportunity for local people to come and meet the team, to ask questions and understand more about the siting process for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF).

“All views are welcome, we are listening to everyone and will continue to do so, having many conversations on what could be a journey lasting a number of years, before the local community makes the final decision as to whether or not they want a GDF in the area.

“We know that there has been some debate over the marine geophysical survey, commissioned by the GDF developer, which takes place this summer. The GDF developer has assured the Partnership that they are committed to environmental protection and will work to minimise the impact of these surveys on marine life by following relevant UK guidance – it is obtaining all necessary permissions and the surveys will be closely monitored to identify and avoid any potential impacts in line with industry best practice.”

A spokesman for GDF developer Nuclear Waste Services said: “We respect all views and welcome constructive, peaceful dialogue with all who are interested in learning about the Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) process.

“We are committed to environmental protection and will work to minimise the impact of these surveys on marine life by following relevant UK guidance. We are obtaining all necessary permissions.

“Our marine geophysical survey will use the same technology that is routinely deployed world-wide in major projects like offshore wind. Based on sound sources, the technology is similar to ultrasound imaging for medical purposes.

“The survey off the coast of Copeland will enable us to better understand whether a location could host a GDF and in turn help inform discussions with communities.”