Councillors in Cumbria are to be given an overview of nuclear issues by some of the country’s leading nuclear scientists and policy makers.
A full-day seminar in Kendal on Thursday, March 9th will provide councillors with the nuclear story-so-far in Cumbria as well as an overview of what the future may hold for the county.
The seminar, which will be chaired by Councillor Tim Stoddard, Leader of Cumbria County Council, will look at the impact of decommissioning on Cumbria, issues around managing radioactive waste safely, as well as whether nuclear power has a place in future energy provision.
The future of the economy in West Cumbria will also be outlined –with a progress report on a master plan for mapping West Cumbria’s economy for the next 20 years and details of how the region is diversifying away from nuclear industry in the decommissioning age.
There are speakers at the seminar from organisations including DEFRA, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, British Nuclear Group, UK Atomic Energy Authority, the Environment Agency, Nirex UK Ltd, Enviros Consultancy, West Lakes Renaissance, Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace.
“It’s a rare opportunity to gather so many leading lights in the nuclear field under one roof. Issues around the nuclear industry are incredibly complex, with massive implications for Cumbria,” said Councillor Tim Stoddard, Leader of Cumbria County Council.
“Nuclear energy is back on the national agenda and we need to start mapping our future in Cumbria. It’s a time for developing policy positions via measured, informed discussion,” said Councillor Stoddard.