THE majority of south Cumbria could be affected if there was a major nuclear incident at Sellafield, a new report has revealed. New regulations have been introduced to increase the preparedness for radiation emergencies following the Fukishima disaster in Japan. REPPIR 2019 establishes a framework of measures to ensure that arrangements are in place to effectively respond to any emergencies, both on the site of the situation and off-site where members of the public might be affected. Part of the new strategy means Outline Planning Zone’s must be put in place. These are areas outside of the immediate vicinity which could be affected by a disaster. A report from Steve Healey, the chief fire officer for Cumbria, revealed the affected area covers a 50-kilometre circular zone from an epicentre at Sellafield. The area includes as far south as Walney, east as Bowness and north almost to the Scottish border. Cumbria County Council has accepted the report at a meeting of the cabinet, which was chaired by Cllr Stewart Young.
NW Evening Mail 27th Sept 2020 read more »