West Cumbria nuclear waste debate: argument AGAINST

Tomorrow 24 councillors will decide whether the west of the county will look for a possible site to bury nuclear waste.

Opponents say an underground waste store would affect tourism and are concerned that it could be unsafe.

Fourteen million people visit Cumbria every year bringing with them £2bn for the local economy.

Those against moving forward to look for a possible site say tourism could be at risk if the Lake District National Park continues to be considered for an underground nuclear waste store.

Parts of west Cumbria have already been ruled out due to unsuitable geology.

In Ennerdale there are concerns that the facility could be built under the valley. Following an information day homeowners voted on the issue in a referendum.

Those living in the village say they are not anti nuclear but want the National Park to be ruled out of any search.

Friends of the Lake District argue more work needs to be done before looking for a site. They are urging the councils not to proceed tomorrow.

During the 1980s Longlands farm near Gosforth was identified as a possible underground nuclear waste store by Nirex but following an extensive public inquiry planning consent was denied.

Friends of the Earth have questioned why the area is being considered again. They fought the Nirex decision alongside the Cumbria County Council. They don't want an underground waste store built in the county.

The three councils of Allerdale, Copeland and Cumbria County Council will decide whether or not to look for a possible site on 30th January. Samantha Parker, ITV News, west Cumbria