Energy from waste bids called for

Two contractors are preparing final tenders for an Energy from Waste scheme planned for Buckinghamshire.

Two preferred bidders, WRG and Covanta Energy, emerged from a consultation process that first began in May 2007.

The process involved several steps to develop financial, technical, planning and commercial aspects of the bid.

Martin Dickman, waste services manager, said: "This has been a lengthy and very complex process but we have been able to stay pretty much on schedule."

Disused clay pit

Mr Dickman admits there is still much to consider before the preferred bidder is selected.

"What is important is that we choose the right solution for Buckinghamshire," he said.

"The county needs an efficient Energy from Waste facility to treat residual household waste."

WRG are proposing an energy from waste facility at a landfill site at Calvert in the north of Buckinghamshire.

Covanta's proposed site is a disused clay pit in Bedfordshire.

Final tenders are to be submitted by 12 January 2009 for evaluation by council officers and specialist advisors.

The preferred bidder is then expected to be announced towards the end of February 2009.