According to RWM, a geological disposal facility will be built only where there is both a willing host and a suitable site. “Siting factors,” guided by government policy and legislation, will be used to inform conversations RWM will have with communities and to evaluate the suitability of potential host sites.
Six siting factors will be used in assessing possible sites:
Safety and security: Safety and security must be assured and endorsed by independent regulators. RWM will not build a geological disposal facility unless it and its regulators are satisfied that it is safe.
Community: Communities are at the heart of the process to site a disposal facility, and RWM will consider social and economic opportunities, community well-being, and how such a facility can align with the host community’s vision.
Environment: A geological disposal facility is a major environmental protection endeavor, and its construction will need to meet independent regulatory requirements.
Engineering feasibility: RWM will need to ensure that there is scope for sustainable design and the ability to construct and operate a disposal facility at a potential site.
Transport: The safe and secure transport of people, waste, and other materials must be assured.
Value for money: RWM has a duty to ensure that value for money is delivered.
The U.K. government published its updated policy framework on geological disposal, setting out a process for working in partnership with communities, in December 2018. The Welsh government published its equivalent policy on working with communities in January 2019.
