“Establishing the South Holderness GDF Working Group marks the beginning of the process of finding out if this national infrastructure project – to safely and permanently deal with some of the UK’s radioactive waste by placing it deep underground in a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) – would be right for the area.
“This is the starting point for engaging with people in South Holderness and the surrounding areas. The Working Group is here to provide information to enable people to find out more, and listen to any local issues or concerns.
“The Working Group phase of the process is about working with the local communities to discuss the potential of a GDF and the establishment of a Community Partnership. If a Community Partnership is established, there will be up to £1million per year, made available through Grants, to local good causes for taking part in the process.
“The Working Group will not be making any decisions about whether a GDF is right for the area. It will take many years before any decision is finally reached and before that there will need to be explicit community support.
“In the months ahead, I will ensure that local people have access to information and are able to raise their views and concerns. We’re here to understand what people think about a GDF, and look forward to meeting local people and listening to their views.”
David Richards, Chair, South Holderness GDF Working Group