SELLAFIELD is proposing to demolish a pair of 'redundant power and steam generating units', according to planning documents.

Located at the Fellside Combined Heat and Power plant, the two units occupy a footprint of approximately 55 metres by 55 metres and, at their highest, stand approximately 42 metres tall.

Each unit consists of a waste heat recycling facility (producing steam) with tall exhaust chimney and a gas turbine.

A covering letter for the application states that the demolition work are planned to take place over a 12-month period, although a five-year window is requested to 'accommodate any delays'.

It is intended that the project will use several different local metal recycling facilities around the Workington area, including Recycling Lives and AVS Cumbria Metals.

Sellafield Limited is currently undertaking option studies into future development options on the site. "Given the possibility for possible future redevelopment at the site, the proposal is to remove the building superstructures and retain the existing concrete foundations until a future development design is confirmed," the letter added.

Seascale Parish Council has lodged an objection to the demolition over traffic fears, while Gosforth Parish Council has lodged no objection.