The West Berkshire, UK Council has awarded Veolia Environmental Services Plc a 25-year integrated waste contract representing cumulative total revenues of 667 million euros and is targeting a long-term 49 percent recycling rate as part of a major boost to recycling in the area.
Geoff Findlay, the West Berkshire Council’s Executive Councillor, said "This contract will meet the waste needs of West Berkshire for the next 25 years. It will provide a recycling rate of at least 49 percent, the diversion of 79 percent of household waste away from landfill and enhanced curbside collection of recyclables in line with requests from local residents."
The contract covers the Council’s waste collection, recycling, disposal and street cleansing services. Veolia Environmental Services will construct and operate materials recovery, waste transfer, composting and household waste recycling facilities. Waste in West Berkshire amount to 100,000tpa and West Berkshire Council has been awarded €37,4million by Defra in PFI credits.
Denis Gasquet, CEO Veolia Environmental Services said: "Our integrated approach means we can deliver both the expansion of recycling services and waste infrastructure investment West Berkshire needs to meet its recycling and landfill diversion targets".
Denis Gasquet added: "At a time when Defra is increasing its funding for waste PFIs we are delighted we can demonstrate our commitment to deliver sustainable integrated waste management. Our approach combines innovative collection and recycling services for residents and efficient and reliable waste treatment and disposal which are a pre-requisite for municipal authorities."