A GDF, also known as a nuclear waste disposal site, is an underground facility that safely stores and isolates hazardous waste.

The UK’s Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) has confirmed potential sites for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). The three communities involved are Mid Copeland and South Copeland, both in Cumbria, and East Lincolnshire.

A GDF, also known as a nuclear waste disposal site, is an underground facility that safely stores and isolates hazardous waste.

The three locations have been identified based on geological data, areas of environmental protection and consideration of built-up areas.

With the areas of focus identified, more in-depth studies and investigations to evaluate their potential, safety and security will take place. According to the NWS, three key elements are needed for the areas to be considered suitable: the right sub-surface geological environment deep underground, a suitable surface location and the ability to connect the two areas with accessways.

Corhyn Parr, chief executive officer at the NWS, said that the narrowing down of potential areas offers real progress and “will help direct our investigations to help us determine the potential suitability of a specific area”.

The potential areas are not confirmed as the location of the GDF. Construction will only begin once the suitablilty of the area is confirmed following additional studies. The sites must also obtain the necessary consents and permits as well as find a community that is willing to host the facility.

A willing community can be a challenge, primarily due to many communities’ safety concerns over potential mismanagement of nuclear waste. In the case of the construction of Hinkley Point C, EDF held a number of regular forums to educate and inform the local community on the site, listen to concerns and offer work and education opportunities for those in the area. The GDF process will have to go down a similar road in order to secure a site.

Parr added: “A GDF requires a suitable site and willing community and will only be developed when both are in place. We will continue our engagement with local people and stakeholders, and we will be holding events in local communities to talk about what this means for each area.”