Contract to manage Birmingham recycling and waste until 2024 secured

Veolia secures a significant contract to oversee the management of Birmingham's recycling and waste operations until 2034. The ten-year deal encompasses the operation of the city's energy recovery facility, household recycling centres (HRCs), and three waste transfer stations.

Effective from January 2024 and extending until 2034, this agreement underscores Veolia's commitment to achieving a 70% recycling rate at Birmingham's HRCs by the contract's conclusion. The company plans to enhance the existing HRCs at King’s Norton and Castle Bromwich, with the refurbished Perry Barr site set to open on January 31.

Moreover, Veolia aims to extend the lifespan of the Tyseley Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) by another decade. This move provides Birmingham City Council, the largest unitary authority in Europe, additional time to formulate long-term waste management strategies. The Tyseley ERF contributes energy to the National Grid, powering approximately 63,000 homes annually.

Veolia, recognized as the UK's premier sustainable resource company, has previously secured contracts to oversee the processing of the city's Dry Mixed Recycling and Green Recycling.

Gavin Graveson, Senior Executive Vice-President at Veolia, expressed delight in continuing the collaboration with Birmingham City Council. He emphasised the company's commitment to delivering top-notch services, recycling materials, and generating secure electricity supplies. Graveson also outlined Veolia's anticipation of contributing its extensive experience to support Birmingham's aim of achieving net zero by 2030 through Ecological Transformation initiatives.

Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment at Birmingham City Council, highlighted the city's determination to achieve its net zero goal for the benefit of all residents. Mahmood underscored the significance of improved recycling and low-carbon energy in the city's strategy, expressing confidence that ambitious targets, such as raising recycling rates to 70% at HRCs, can be achieved with the support of the city's residents when provided with the necessary means and assistance.