The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority

Following extensive consultation NDA's Radioactive Waste Management Directorate has published the Research and Development Strategy to underpin Geological Disposal of the UK's Higher Activity Radioactive Wastes.

 Research and Development Strategy to Underpin Geological Disposal of the UK Higher Activity Radioactive Wastes March 2009 (2Mb)

The document outlines the approach to the research needed to support the development of a geological disposal facility for the UK's higher activity radioactive wastes.

Neil Smart, Head of Research and Technology, thanked all of the stakeholders who had contributed views through the consultation process to formulate the Strategy and welcomed their continued feedback on all aspects of our research and develepment work.

The Government's Managing Radioactive Waste Safely White Paper stated that, while there is sufficient research work available to be confident that geological disposal is technically achievable, the NDA would undertake further research during the geological disposal facility development process. This research will

• refine concepts;
• improve understanding of chemical and physical interactions in a disposal facility;
• address specific issues raised by regulators;
• support development of site-specific safety cases; and
• optimise facility design and delivery.

Neil Smart said:

"In setting out our research and development strategy, we recognise that we are in the early stages of a project that will last for several decades. We will need to remain responsive to the changing needs of the project as it proceeds through the site investigation, construction and operation phases of a facility."

He explained that we will will review the strategy at the start of the next phase of the process, when sites have been identified. Government is leading the site selection process. Communities have been asked to volunteer their interest in hosting a facility.

He said the strategy for research and development seeks to increase our understanding of the types of waste and materials that may require geological disposal.

Neil added:

"Our needs are diverse and therefore we commission R&D services from organisations with expertise in relevant fields rather than do it ourselves. Our main suppliers are specialist commercial organisations and universities."

The results of R&D work previously undertaken are published and stakeholders are encouraged to access it and to provide feedback. Following publication of the Strategy, a series of workshops will be organised over the coming months to consider the technical issues related to particular research areas. Later this year, we plan to publish the details of our R&D programme. The Response to Comments documents can be found by following this link:

 Research and Development Strategy for Geological Disposal Facility NDA Response to Consultation Results March 2009 (1Mb)