Issue - meetings

(a)       That the proposals, in principle, for developing the Standard Yard Waste Transfer Station (WTS) be noted; and

(b)       That Cabinet be recommended to approve the proposed funding bids and investment required for Standard Yard WTS.

Councillor Carolyn Thomas introduced a report containing proposals to upgrade the existing Waste Transfer Station (WTS) at Standard Industrial Estate in Buckley due to significant growth in processing demand.  The WTS enabled the separation and sorting of recycling materials before being sent for onward processing.  The report set out funding proposals and sought approval to Cabinet to progress with the project.

The Service Delivery Manager, Highways & Waste said that the proposals had been informed by the waste consultation exercise including operatives working at the site.  The proposals would improve access and facilities and create an educational centre whilst also resolving logistical issues at the site.  The aim at this stage was to gain political approval prior to progressing with the design of the development.

In response to questions from the Chairman, Councillor Carolyn Thomas said that there was no potential for sharing the WTS as neighbouring councils had their own facilities.

The two local Members, Councillors Hutchinson and Peers thanked the Service Delivery Manager for meeting with them and giving them the opportunity to provide feedback.  Whilst both supported the need for investment on the site, Councillor Peers raised a number of concerns which had already been shared with officers.  He questioned the viability of relocating the existing Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to Greenfield and asked where the equipment breakdown issues had been reported.  He considered the proposed new access road off Globe Way to be unnecessary and instead suggested utilising the existing road (marked with arrows on the plan) to avoid cutting off the building.  Therefore he proposed that the first recommendation be changed to note the proposal “in principle” to improve the site.

In welcoming feedback, the Chief Officer (Streetscene & Transportation) expressed a willingness to discuss options for the development of the site to ensure its future viability.  He said that the maintenance issues had increased over time as the equipment aged.

The Service Delivery Manager explained that the relocation of the MRF was only intended to provide resilience as a backup facility to increase capacity at Greenfield.

Councillor Shotton urged the Council to take advantage of funding opportunities from Welsh Government as and when they became available.

The recommendations, as amended, were moved by Councillor Peers and seconded by Councillor Hutchinson.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the proposals, in principle, for developing the Standard Yard Waste Transfer Station (WTS) be noted; and

(b)       That Cabinet be recommended to approve the proposed funding bids and investment required for Standard Yard WTS.