THE story of Forth’s mission to build one of Europe’s largest test pond facilities has become the subject of a new radio mini-series.
BBC journalist Andrew Carter visited our Maryport headquarters to get up close and personal with the DRF – our Deep Recovery Facility.
From MD Mark’s ‘Field of Dreams’ moment, to the trials and tribulations of driving the project to completion, the 12 minute ‘Secret Cumbria’ broadcast captures the essence of one of Forth’s greatest challenges – and victories.
Mark said: “The construction of the DRF was a process fraught with risk, challenges and ultimately success and it was great to relive the period when Andrew came to visit.
“The story underlines the art of the possible when your mindset is fixed on the end goal. Most people thought we were crazy to even consider the project- but for us it was an absolute case build it, and they will come.”
The Deep Recovery Facility marked its 10th anniversary, earlier this year, celebrating a decade of pioneering work in underwater robotics and remote engineering.
Established in 2015, it was initially created to support the nuclear sector, particularly for testing and developing technologies aimed at decommissioning nuclear facilities. Over the years, its scope has broadened significantly.
The facility has been instrumental in various innovative projects, including the development of robotic systems for nuclear sludge retrieval and the testing of a robotic whale.
The 22-meter-long, six-meter-deep indoor pond provides a controlled environment for testing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and other underwater technologies.
Its contributions have not only advanced nuclear decommissioning efforts but have also had broader applications in environmental and marine engineering.
You can listen to the Secret Cumbria episode on BBC sounds here.
