Mid Copeland
Mid Copeland is one of three communities across England currently engaged in learning what hosting a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) could mean for them.
Introduction
Mid Copeland covers the electoral ward of Gosforth and includes Seascale, Gosforth, Beckermet, Calderbridge, Haile, Thornhill, Nethertown and Braystones.
The Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership was formed in November 2021. Nuclear Waste Services sits on the Community Partnership as the GDF developer.
A Search Area has been identified by the Community Partnership and this is being investigated by NWS. No areas that fall within the Lake District National Park or 2019 extension proposal will be considered to host a GDF.
In the community
In 2023 to 2024, the Community Partnership held or attended over 70 community events, resulting in almost 1,000 discussions with local people.
The Community Partnership, which has 11 members, also supports events and engagement with residents in neighbouring communities to keep people informed about its work and that of the GDF programme.
Formation of a Community Partnership triggered up to £1million per year of Community Investment Funding (CIF). This funding is available for projects and initiatives that support economic development opportunities, improve community well-being, or enhance the local environment (including cultural and natural heritage).
A total of £2million has already been awarded to local projects including play parks, first aid training and an emergency ambulance for Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team.
Programme updates
Mid Copeland news
Property value protection
The NWS Property Value Protection (PVP) scheme is a support scheme and is only available to those who are able to demonstrate a compelling need to sell their property, yet have been unable to do so, other than at a substantially reduced price, due to the search for a suitable site to host a GDF in their community.