Shortlist for waste treatment contract cut to two from 16

The process of selecting who will manage household waste from Bradford and Calderdale for the next 25 years is now in its final stages, the contract due to be awarded in 12 months time.

The contract will mean that more materials are recycled and waste is diverted from landfill, therefore producing a cleaner environment and avoiding landfill taxes. Both bidders propose to construct a plant on a site at Bowling Back Lane, Bradford.

Coun Ghazanfer Khaliq, Bradford Council's executive member for environment and sustainability, said: "Bradford and Calderdale are working together to save money and develop an efficient and sustainable waste solution.

"Residents can rest assured that they will be informed and consulted about any decisions being made, taking into account their needs, environmental impact and value for money.

"We will make sure that the design, location and construction of any waste treatment facility will take into account the quality of life for local residents."

Calderdale Council's portfolio holder for economy and environment, Barry Collins, said: "Using landfill is no longer an option for dealing with our waste. It cannot be justified either environmentally or financially.

"The two bidders will consult with residents about their proposals for waste treatment facilities and make sure everyone has their say."

Last year the Yorkshire Post reported how a multi-million- pound waste management contract was handled by Calderdale following a damning report into what went wrong.

Council chief executive Owen Williams promised disciplinary action would be taken against senior officials following an independent investigation by PricewaterhouseCoopers which raised concerns about how the process was managed and how community recycling company Kerbside Calderdale was forced to close when the 49m contract went to multi-national Sita UK.

A study into the way the refuse collection contract was awarded showed European rules had been flouted and the specification changed by officers without reference to council leaders.