Prediction of Temporal Changes in the Chernobyl Restricted Area of Wales and the Effect Changing Intervention Levels Would Have on the Restricted Areas of Cumbria and Wales

Following the Chernobyl accident in 1986, areas of Cumbria, North Wales and Scotland were contaminated with radiocaesium fallout. To protect consumers, restrictions were placed on the movement, sale and slaughter of sheep in these contaminated areas. Over time, the size of the restricted areas have reduced substantially, however restrictions are likely to remain in place for many years.
<p>
The primary aim of the research is to provide scientifically based predictions on the duration of restrictions in North Wales, where 359 farms remain subject to post-Chernobyl controls on the movement of sheep. The output from the model will be used to enable derestriction exercises to be focused on those farms in the restricted area, where efforts are most likely to be beneficial, rather than spending resources surveying farms that will be subject to restrictions for many years.
<p>
The secondary aim of the project is to provide data to the Agency on what effect changes to the limit (or intervention level) of radioactive contamination in sheep meat would have on the restricted areas of Cumbria and Wales. Although there are currently no plans to change the limits in the UK, it will be useful to have data on the effects should the situation ever arise.