‘Nuclear disposal facility would need the community’s support’

THE hosting of a nuclear disposal facility would only happen with the support of the public, a government minister has said.

Lesley Griffiths, the Welsh Government’s cabinet secretary for environment, said that although a consultation has started on whether people wanted to host a facility, it does not mean a facility will definitely be built in Wales.

She said: “The Welsh Government strongly supports this voluntarist approach whereby a potential host community would seek discussions with Radioactive Waste Management about hosting a GDF.

“Before a final decision about siting a GDF is taken, a test of public support in the potential host community would be required.”

It comes after a consultation revealed villages and towns in north Wales could be offered millions of pounds to allow nuclear waste to be stored there.

The government is trying to find places willing to be home to a disposal site, with the radioactive waste being buried at least 200 metres below ground.

Residents have not been quick to volunteer on social media following the announcement.

On Facebook, Michelle McDonough said: “Who would receive the money?

“I’m sure house holders wouldn’t and i’m sure this would then make your property unsellable.”

Others have suggested the waste be buried under other areas – including London.

Any area that did volunteer would be paid £1 million a year during the selection process, which would increase to £2.5 million a year once test bore holes were drilled.