Romney Marsh nuclear plan opposed by East Sussex County Council

The Romney Marsh Nuclear Research and Disposal Facility would involve waste being buried hundreds of metres underground

Proposals for a nuclear research and disposal facility at Romney Marsh in Kent have been opposed by East Sussex County Council.

The government is looking at a range of options for managing nuclear waste and a facility deep underground is the preference.

Romney Marsh has been put forward as a possible location and Shepway District Council is considering the proposal.

A spokesman for East Sussex council said: "We have serious concerns."

The Romney Marsh Nuclear Research and Disposal Facility would be buried 200m (650ft) to 1,000m (3,300ft) below ground.

'Many unknowns'

East Sussex County Council says there is insufficient evidence and information to support the plan.

Peter Jones, council leader, said: "We have serious concerns about these proposals in a location close to our border.

"We believe the plan doesn't stack up and has many unknowns including geology, economic benefit, infrastructure and community support.

"Support for a facility like this, which would have a major impact on the area both in Kent and East Sussex, should only be considered against evidence that demonstrates viability, economic benefit, safety and environmental protection."

Shepway District Council is considering whether the facility could be built at Romney Marsh but has said it has "no formal view" about the proposal and believes local people should have the opportunity to discuss the idea.

Protect Kent has also reacted strongly to the proposal, saying it must be "quashed at the outset".

The decision not to support the proposals was made at an East Sussex County Council Strategic Management and Economic Development meeting, held at County Hall in Lewes on Tuesday.