Viridor announces a £15.4m investment in Masons Recycling Facility

Viridor, one of the UK’s leading recycling, renewable energy and waste management companies, will invest £15.4 million in the Masons Materials Recycling Facility near Ipswich. The investment, a part of a 10-year contract renewal between Suffolk County Council and Viridor, will increase capacity from 65,000 tonnes to 75,000 tonnes per annum, with a significant investment in mechanical recovery equipment, including 11 optical sorters.

Viridor’s Managing Director of Recycling and Integrated Assets, Paul Brown said: “Viridor has a clear focus on developing the real opportunities to put quality recycling materials back into the economy where they belong. This starts with viewing waste as a resource, rather than rubbish, and, thanks to Suffolk’s commitment to recycling, and this new Viridor investment, we are well positioned to make the most of the county’s recycling opportunities.”

The upgrade will feature 111 conveyors, an additional trommel and two more balers. The process targets mixed fibre, news & pams, card, aluminium, steel, mixed plastic, HDPE and PET.

“The Masons investment plan has been specifically designed not only to achieve greater capacity but to match the quality of its output with market requirements. The education centre and staff welfare facilities are also prioritised in this project,” he added.

Paul West, Cabinet Member for Waste at Suffolk County Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for local businesses to get involved in the project and for the local economy to benefit.  From builders’ merchants to van hire companies I would encourage local businesses to come along to the event to see what opportunities there may be for them.”

The modernisation programme will take place from March to December.

The project will also see a £20,000 upgrade in the Masons MRF Education Centre. The centre allows the visitors to learn more about recycling and the importance putting the right stuff in the right bin.