Understanding the need for Household Waste Recycling Centres in the future
The need for a new household waste recycling centre (HWRC) in the city has been discussed by Cardiff Council's Cabinet today.
The Cabinet has granted authority to consider the need for any new HWRCs - and if a need is found - to develop a business case and to look at potential site options.
Cabinet Member for Clean Streets and Recycling, Cllr Michael Michael, said: "When we consider any potential HWRC sites in the future I think it's important we realise that siting them in residential areas causes a nuisance to residents that live nearby, with noise from the operations, as well as disturbance from both cars and operational vehicles coming to and from the facility. Clearly we need to consider these matters moving forward when we look at any potential sites for new HWRCs."
"With the city's population due to increase significantly in the years ahead, it's clear that there may well be a requirement for an additional HWRC. However, we need to investigate this thoroughly and we need to be sure that if there is to be another HWRC that it will deliver value for money, value for residents and value for the environment.
"If you look at other cities - similar in size to Cardiff - it is clear that the two super sites we have at Lamby Way and Bessemer Close are adequate for our population. But I realise that with the projected population increase, there may be a need for an additional facility in the future.
"This is why it is important that a business case is produced, so we can identify a potential site, understand how much it would cost and understand when a facility may be needed.
"Now that we have agreement from my cabinet colleagues, that is precisely what is going to happen, so we can plan for the future and bring back a detailed proposal to cabinet when the work has been completed."
In 2012 a review of operations of all HWRC's in Cardiff - Lamby Way, Bessemer Close, Wedal Road and Waungron Road, revealed that the sites were only operating at a 60% capacity. Following this assessment and due to budgetary pressures, a decision was taken to close two of these facilities.
Waungron Road has already closed and Wedal Road is scheduled to close on March 2ndthis year.