Issue - meetings

For the Economy, Transport & Environment Select Committee to pre--scrutinise the proposals regarding the work undertaken through the Hampshire Waste Partnership programme in the context of the recently reintroduced Environment Bill and the impact that this will have on waste management in Hampshire. The report updates on the work done to review potential collection systems and consider the implications of these on the waste and recycling infrastructure. The report provides information on the various infrastructure options, the associated financial implications of the options and how they fit the expected legislative changes that are coming forward and will be considered at the Decision Day of Executive Member of Economy, Transport and Environment on 2 July 2020.

Councillor Martin Tod declared an interest as a portfolio holder for waste management at Winchester City Council

The Select Committee pre-scrutinised a report from the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment (item 7 in the minutes book) regarding the proposals for the business case for a single co-mingled Materials Recycling Facility (MRF). The report was due to be considered by the Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment on the 2 July 2020.

he officer summarised the report, highlighting the work that had been done so far and subsequent modelling. Investigations so far had speculated that a single MRF would cost the County Council around £4.6million for the remainder of the contract, and therefore it was felt necessary to look at other options alongside the MRF, which were detailed within the report (paragraph 36) and drawn to Members attention. A good working relationship with District and Borough Council’s was crucial in identifying the best way forward.

During questions, it was confirmed that gasification wasn’t something being considered and that other waste disposal methods were preferred, that would be more cost effective for the tax payer. From a recycling perspective, Kerbside sorting appeared to be the cheapest option but not favoured by local Councils across the County.

With regards to recycling capacity, the two MRF’s operating at the moment were receiving around 100,000 tonnes of dry mixed recyclables, and whilst they were able to process up to around 150,000 tonnes, this was unlikely to be achieved due to the strict quality criteria required to sell these recyclable materials. A capacity of 125-130,000 tonnes to allow for pots, tubs and trays would be the ideal with potential for cartons and would account for additional housing growth in the County.

The Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment confirmed that things were changing quite rapidly and that it was important to not invest in infrastructure until more guidance came from Central Government.

RESOLVED

The Select Committee supported the recommendations being proposed to the Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment in paragraphs 2 and 3 (pages 1-2) of the attached report.