LLW Repository Ltd

Our Operations

To provide a Low Level Waste Disposal Service for Customers, LLW Repository Ltd operates the Low Level Waste Repository, the UK's primary facility for disposal of low level radioactive waste.

Our in-depth understanding of low level waste management, both strategically and operationally, enables us to deliver a robust and efficient disposal service. The operations we undertake at the Low Level Waste Repository include:

• Waste receipt
• Container grouting
• Waste storage
• Waste disposal
• Site monitoring
• Facility maintenance

Low level waste material received onto site comes from various customers in the nuclear industry, the healthcare sector, research and educational establishments and other industries. Where possible, material arrives by rail to reduce road traffic. Ultimately, the waste is grouted in containers, which are then stacked in engineered concrete disposal vaults. Treatment is also used to reduce the volume of waste where possible, before waste is containerised and brought to the Low Level Waste Repository.

High Standards

As a Nuclear Licensed Site, all operations comply fully with the relevant regulatory requirement and the Environmental Permit governed by the Environment Agency. Routine monitoring of the environment and site activities ensures we continue to meet all regulatory requirements. The high standards we adhere to are testament to the quality staff we employ, set operational procedures and a dedication to site safety.

Managing the Past

Back in 1939, the site was first used as a Royal Ordnance Factory to support the war effort. Today we are committed to the effective remediation of this and other historic activity including the decommissioning of facilities that were used to store Plutonium Contaminated Material from the Sellafield site during the 1950s and 1960s.

Future Operations

LLW Repository Ltd is supporting the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority in the implementation of a UK-wide Low Level Waste Strategy for all nuclear sites. As manager and operator of the national disposal repository, we are working alongside the NDA to develop long-term arrangements for the management of all UK low level waste. In parallel, we will continue to develop and enhance operations further to improve overall cost and efficiency. Specifically we will:

• Refurbish operational facilities to extend their life
• Introduce new technology to enhance monitoring activities
• Adopt innovative ways to maintain high standards of environmental performance

All future operations are developed with one clear objective, to minimise the volume of low level waste being managed at the repository in line with national strategy and in close consultation with our key stakeholders.