The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority celebrated its 20th anniversary on Tuesday [July 29] with a visit from His Majesty The King.
The NDA is responsible for cleaning up and decommissioning the UK’s oldest nuclear sites safely, securely and cost effectively.
King Charles met with members of the NDA as well as representatives from the UK and Scottish Government’s and local community members in Caithness as part of his annual visit to the region.
The NDA is one of the largest employers in Caithness and the surrounding area, supporting over 1,500 jobs and investing £1 million in collaboration with local community groups each year.
Last week, the NDA confirmed further investment of £1 million over the next three years into the Caithness & North Sutherland Fund, supporting more than 251 projects aimed at attracting more people to live, work and invest in the area. This new funding takes the group’s total investment in the fund to £5 million.
Since 2019 it has also invested £5 million in developing Scrabster Harbour, enhancing its capacity to accommodate cruise ships to attract tourists and help to diversify the economy. Since cruising restarted in 2023, 40 ships have brought business to the local community in the Far North of Scotland.
The royal visit marked both the NDA’s 20th anniversary as well as the 50th anniversary of Pacific Nuclear Transport Ltd (PNTL). Founded in 1975, it is the world’s leading maritime nuclear transporter, responsible for safely moving nuclear materials around the world.
His Majesty also visited the Pacific Heron, part of the PNTL’s fleet, and met with its crew, who maintain a flawless safety record and are among the worlds most experienced nuclear transporters.
NDA group CEO David Peattie said: “I was delighted to welcome His Majesty The King and introduce him to valued staff members and stakeholders. It’s a powerful reminder of the national importance of the mission we’re delivering on behalf on the UK.
“Together with King Charles we share a passion for sustainability and protecting the planet. The NDA group is responsible for one of the biggest environmental remediation programmes in the world, and we are committed to leaving a positive legacy for future generations.
“From decommissioning legacy facilities and driving towards carbon net zero to investing in projects in the local community which help diversify the economy and grow skills, we’re proud to be a responsible neighbour and make a positive difference in our site communities.”
Featured image via Nuclear Decommissioning Authority / HM Government.
