Answering Your Questions
Who is WLPS?
WLPS own one of four fuel storage sites at the Buncefield Depot. The company and its facilities
are jointly owned by a consortium of oil companies; namely Shell, BP, Total and Chevron.
What are you planning to store on site?
We have applied to store the same quantity of aviation fuel (kerosene) as prior to the
incident that occurred on the Hertfordshire Oil Storage Limited site. Kerosene is far harder to
ignite than petrol and is similar to the fuel that is stored, and used, by millions of households
for their domestic heating.
Why do you need to store fuel at Buncefield?
The Buncefield Depot is a strategic point in a complex cross country pipeline infrastructure that spans the
UK. Our site not only supports local jobs, but provides the most viable and secure long term
solution for the safe storage, quality control checking and supply of aviation fuel to London airports.
What safety improvements have you made?
We have made a number of operational refinements including; reconfiguring tanks to further
improve safety distances, installing the latest safety equipment as well as improving our fuel
and water containment facilities and fire fighting capabilities. Our experienced team has worked
closely with designers, planners, environmental consultants, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE)
and the Environment Agency to ensure our plans reflect the highest safety standards and are in line with
the recommendations delivered by the Buncefield Major Incident Investigation Board.
When will the WLPS site become fully operational again?
Our proposals are subject to the usual planning procedures and timeframes. However, subject to
approval, we are looking to begin rebuilding in 2009, with a view to returning to full business
operations by 2010/11.
Where can I find further information?
If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact us by
e-mailing info@wlpsrebuild.co.uk or by writing to us
at WLPS Rebuild, PO Box 1292, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 5BS.