Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

New waste collection contract awarded.
Focsa was one of six commercial operators to submit bids for collecting non-recyclable rubbish and compostable green waste. The contract was awarded on the basis of cost, service delivery and contract management proposals.

The company will take over collections from current operator Cleanaway and will continue to operate the service out of the Council’s Riverway depot in Trowbridge. Refuse collection staff currently employed by Cleanaway will be given the opportunity to transfer to Focsa.

Rosemary Brown, the Council’s environment portfolio holder, said: “We have a duty to provide the best value service we can. The tender process generated six good bids, which were considered and scored against our requirements. Based on this scoring system, Focsa offered the best return for our investment across all areas and they have considerable experience of working with councils.”

Focsa Services (UK) Ltd was established in 1989 and focuses on providing high quality services to local authorities. Many contracts have been operated for more than 16 years, reflecting Focsa’s commitment to providing quality and cost effective services. The West Wiltshire contract will run for a seven year period from 1 April 2007.

Regional Manager (South) Stuart Jellings said: “We are very proud and honoured to have been awarded this contract and look forward to a successful partnership with West Wiltshire District Council.

Our objective is to provide and improve services for the residents of West Wiltshire. We are working closely with Council officers and the existing contractor to achieve a smooth transfer of the work to Focsa. We will be working with key stakeholders to ensure that they understand timescales and any changes that may be made.”