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The move in Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire, marks another important step forward in the nationwide search to find a willing community and suitable site for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF)

where higher-activity radioactive waste will be disposed of safely and securely.

Theddlethorpe GDF Community Partnership is the fourth in the UK, following three that were established in west Cumbria over the last year:

Conversations with local people will now extend over the coming years, taking over from engagement started last year by the Working Group to consider the possibility of hosting a GDF in the

area.

Recruitment to the Community Partnership, a larger and longer-term group, is now set to begin. Following identification of a search area covering two electoral wards of Withern &

Theddlethorpe, and Mablethorpe, activities will focus on further discussions to help build local understanding of a GDF. While this search area covers the two electoral wards of Withern &

Theddlethorpe and Mablethorpe, we are looking to site a GDF deep underground beyond the coast.

The former gas terminal will continue to be considered as a possible surface reception facility, with planned underground facilities constructed in the deep rock layers beyond the coastline.

This means a land-based surface facility could provide access to underground tunnels and vaults many kilometres away, constructed in rocks up to 1,000 metres deep.

The formation of Theddlethorpe Community Partnership also unlocks £1 million per year of community investment funding for initiatives supporting economic development opportunities, improving

community well-being, or enhancing the local environment. This figure could rise to £2.5 million annually later in the process.

Karen Wheeler CBE, NWS’ Deputy CEO and Major Capital Programmes Director, said: “We’re really thrilled to see the formation of Theddlethorpe GDF Community Partnership. This provides a

platform to increase community engagement and trigger investment funding for projects that will provide immediate benefits for the communities involved.

“This is the fourth Community Partnership to form and represents real progress as we engage with communities about a GDF and what it could mean for them. We look forward to continuing

discussions and beginning investigations in these areas for a site that could be suitable.”

NWS continues to hold informal discussions in other parts of the country that may lead to the formation of additional Working Groups and Community Partnerships.

Construction of a GDF requires both a suitable site and a willing community. If a suitable site is eventually found, a Test of Public Support would be held with those living in affected

wards. The project could only go ahead with clear public support.