The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority has announced funding for Sellafield will increase to £1.5bn for 2010-1, representing more than half of its £2.8bn budget for this year.
The Authority said the change recognises its policy of focusing resources on its highest hazards but it would be for each site licence company to establish a work programme to meet the priorities within its allocation and consult its workforce.
Sellafield Ltd responded that it is entering negotiations with its workforce on plans to defer some lower priority work and focus on high hazard reduction, as well as efficiency schemes. No details were given.
"The objective of the consultation process will be to minimise any job losses," said the company.
"The company and unions intend to work together in partnership to deliver the optimum solution for our employees and members and to retain and develop the key nuclear skills that will be required for the future. Our shared intention would be that any resulting redundancies would be on a voluntary basis."
