Operational Strategy
LLW Repository Ltd set out the first strategy for LLW Repository Ltd Operations up until site closure in the Initial Operational Strategy. Implementation of this strategy has commenced in key areas and the strategy has been developed into the Preliminary Operational Strategy. The strategy will be finalised in the Developed Operational Strategy in April 2010.
This Preliminary Operational Strategy details how LLW Repository Ltd intends the facility to be managed through to closure and how its operations fit within the overall national strategic framework.
The objectives of the LLW Repository Ltd Operational Strategy are to transform the LLW Repository Ltd from a storage and waste handling site to a fully integrated waste management operation, providing a full service across the broad spectrum of waste management activities in support of LLW Repository Ltd and consignor initiatives. The Strategy will continue to be developed using the following principles:
- Disciplined and integrated implementation of the waste hierarchy
- Minimising the burden on the environment from disposal of radioactive wastes by minimising volumes of waste destined for disposal through consignor support to apply disciplined characterisation, segregation and treatment.
- Emplacing into LLWR vaults only those wastes that require multi barrier containment for human health and environmental protection, promoting the best use of the engineered disposal offered at the LLWR.
The Preliminary Operational Strategy is divided into components:
- Very Low Level Waste Disposal
- Waste Management Innovations and Services
- Site Operations and Assured Disposal
- Remediation and Site Closure
This Preliminary Operational Strategy demonstrates that the LLW Repository Ltd is managing the predicted near term shortfall in the UK’s LLW disposal capacity and ensuring that future disposal capacity is made available as soon as practicable. This is evidence of the commitment to deliver the provision of Low Level Waste Management to the NDA by undertaking strategic review, option, and opportunity studies in order to implement a UK LLW Management Plan.