A series of events are set to help people find out more about what a geological disposal facility could mean for the South Copeland area.
The events are being held by South Copeland GDF Community Partnership in June in the designated search area.
A facility requires a suitable site and a willing community. Deep geology beyond the coast is being considered for siting the underground elements of a GDF. This means a surface facility on, or near, the coast would provide access to a disposal area deep in rock beyond the coast. If a suitable site is found in Copeland – a decision which could take 10-15 years – a Test of Public Support to give people a direct say would be held with those living in the wards affected. Without public support the project would not go ahead.
The partnership’s community engagement team will be hosting events in Millom and Haverigg.
Events will take place on:
- Friday June 17 11am-7pm. The Tin Chapel, Mainsgate Road, Millom, LA18 4JZ
- Saturday June 18, 11am-5pm. The Tin Chapel, Mainsgate Road, Millom, LA18 4JZ
- Friday June 24, 11am-7pm. The Lighthouse Centre, Atkinson Street, Haverigg, Millom, LA18 4HA
- Saturday June 5, 11am-5pm. The Lighthouse Centre, Atkinson Street, Haverigg, Millom, LA18 4HA
Community engagement manager Kelly Anderson, said: “We are here to help people understand geological disposal and the siting process and we’re encouraging everyone to come along and have a chat with us, ask us questions, raise any concerns, and talk about the opportunities this process offers.
“Our engagement team will be joined by different experts in their field to discuss the subjects which matter most to people in more detail. I am looking forward to meeting with people in the local community and listening to their views.”
A community that has a suitable site and takes the opportunity to host a GDF will receive significant additional investment and long-term benefits for future generations, including jobs and skills.
The South Copeland area now has access to £1million Community Investment Funding per year from the GDF programme as discussions progress around what a facility could mean locally.
To find out more about the South Copeland GDF Community Partnership see here. Other ways to contact the Partnership include email: [email protected] or telephone 0300 369 0000.
