strategy in 2019 which focusses on use of the most appropriate treatment and disposal routes that take account of the risks posed by the nature of the wastes rather than their strict classification. This recognises that some ILW streams do not necessarily require disposal in a GDF and may be more appropriately managed in near-surface disposal( NSD) facilities. Other countries including France and Finland have adopted a similar approach, which has the potential to divert a significant volume of HAW such as graphite from the UK GDF. In addition to reducing the cost of GDF construction, the government estimates this will accelerate decommissioning and save around £ 500 million in storage costs.
To deliver the integrated radioactive waste strategy, the NDA combined its subsidiaries LLWR and RWM to form Nuclear Waste Services( NWS) in 2022.
The government published an integrated policy in 2024 to provide a coherent UK-wide framework for managing radioactive substances and nuclear decommissioning, replacing separate policies for LLW and implementing geological disposal. The new policy endorses the risk-informed strategy adopted for the management of HAW, and will allow the disposal of less hazardous ILW in near-surface facilities subject to demonstration that these proposed facilities will be safe. This brings the UK into closer alignment with Scottish HAW policy adopted in 2011. The 2024 policy also promotes the on-site disposal of LLW on nuclear and former nuclear sites subject to demonstration of safety. It includes the expectation that the NDA will develop at least one NSD facility on land within its estate in England and Wales.
The NDA published a Strategic Position Paper on NSD in 2020, and is investigating options for surface level vaults( similar to the LLWR) and vaults or silos at up to 80 m depth. The NDA has estimated it will be able to identify a suitable site, obtain authorisation and planning permission, and construct an NSD facility within 10 years.
Cobalt-60 irradiator going for disposal
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