UK Ministry of Defence, A new facility for defuelling decommissioned nuclear-powered attack submarines will be constructed at Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, the Ministry of Defence announced today.
More than £150 million will be invested in the facility which, when complete, will enable the MoD to restart its programme of de-fuelling nuclear-powered boats in 2012.
Devonport Management Limited (DML), who own and operate the dockyard, will oversee the construction and operation of the new works. Today's investment will be added to the existing partnering agreement between the MoD and dockyard operator DML.
Minister of State for Defence Equipment and Support, Lord Drayson said:
“Providing a new facility for de-fuelling decommissioned nuclear-powered attack submarines underlines the MoD's commitment to managing the nuclear fleet in the safest possible way.
“Construction of the works is also positive news for the South West economy with 500 staff from DML and its subcontractors involved in creating the facility and 250 working on the de-fuelling programme long-term.”
Installed at the Submarine Refit Complex at Devonport, the new facility will comprise a low-level reactor access house, together with a short specialised rail track, which will safely remove the used fuel from the submarines and away from the dock. Used fuel will subsequently be transported to Sellafield for safe disposal.
Background Notes:
1. The new defuelling facility will be constructed at Devonport Royal Dockyard. Owned and operated by DML, the Dockyard is distinct from Her Majesty's Naval Base Devonport, though located within it.
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