Whatever the nuclear future may hold for Plymouth, DIG recognises the grim reality that as a nuclear port we cannot escape facing an almost inevitable increase in radioactive materials, processes and wastes. The risks posed by these to public health and environmental safety is a challenge we must and will continue to confront. We want to join with other nuclear sites, particularly those that host nuclear submarines. Through networking and the exchange of information with similar groups and individuals at those locations we hope to share experiences and knowledge to achieve greater safety for ourselves, our children and our environment now and for the future. Radioactive Waste Radioactive waste is routinely stored, handled and transported around the Submarine Refit Complex.
Expansion is underway to store more plutonium contaminated spent fuel and intermediate level wastes.
Currently, radioactive waste is being kept in the open under tarpaulins and in second-hand Magnox flasks. The nuclear licensed site is set to expand by five times in area, taking nuclear operations right up to the dockyard perimeter wall and main road through Devonport. Transportation of Radioactive Materials High level radioactive spent fuel is routinely transported through the city by rail. Fresh, highly enriched uranium fuel is delivered to the dockyard on the back of a lorry by the main holiday traffic route through the city. Intermediate level nuclear and chemically contaminated waste is stored and transported around the nuclear dockyard.