The Greater Manchester Waste & Recycling Committee is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 24 September 2026, to discuss a range of important topics concerning waste and recycling management across the region. Key agenda items include updates on contracts, budget performance, and significant policy developments such as the Sustainable Consumption and Production Plan, alongside operational matters like Household Waste Recycling Centre access and the implications of Emissions Trading and Deposit Return Schemes.

Contract Update

The committee will receive an update on the performance of the Waste and Resource Management Services and Household Waste Recycling Centre Management Services contracts, which commenced on 1 June 2019. The report covers cumulative data for Contract Year 7 (2025/26), detailing overall performance, recycling rates, and diversion from landfill. It notes a slight decrease in the combined recycling rate to approximately 45.7% for Contract Year 7, attributed partly to lower biowaste tonnages in the early summer. Diversion from landfill remains high, exceeding 99%. The report also highlights health and safety statistics, including four incidents reportable under RIDDOR regulations during Contract Year 7.

GM Waste and Resources Budget Update and 25/26 Outturn Position

A report from Steve Wilson, Group Chief Finance Officer, will provide an overview of the final 2025/26 revenue and capital outturn position for the Waste & Resources service. The revenue outturn shows a favourable variance, with total expenditure below budget, partly due to operational cost efficiencies and lower than anticipated financing costs. The capital programme outturn indicates that some projects have experienced delays and budget re-profiling, with significant variances noted for the Reliance Street HWRC and Salford Road MRF projects. The report also details movements in various earmarked reserves.

Sustainable Consumption and Production Plan Update

Michelle Lynch, Lead Programmes Manager for Sustainable Consumption and Production, will present an update on the Greater Manchester Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) Work Programme for 2026/27. The programme focuses on scaling the circular economy, supporting behaviour change through climate engagement, delivering place-based programmes in schools and communities, and reducing waste through refill and sustainable food systems. Progress updates will be provided on key initiatives such as Eco Refill Shops, Eco Grants for Schools, Bee Loved Fashion, and the Climate Awareness Framework, highlighting their contributions to waste reduction and sustainable lifestyles.

HWRC Access Restrictions Update

Paul Morgan, Head of Commercial Services, will provide an update on proposals to enhance residency checks at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). Following previous discussions on the impact of neighbouring council HWRC closures, the report outlines plans for a 'soft' approach to residency checks, including a communication campaign and verbal enquiries at the Meet and Greet points. The aim is to ensure facilities are primarily used by Greater Manchester residents. The introduction of these checks is anticipated in the New Year, following consultation on a standard operating procedure.

Community Fund 26/27 Update

Marie O'Neill Steinegger, Community Engagement Manager, will present an update on the annual Renew Community Fund. This fund, managed by Action Funder on behalf of SUEZ, provides grants to community groups across Greater Manchester for projects focused on waste reduction, repair, and skill-building. The report details the application process, the number of applications received, and the criteria used for shortlisting projects. A list of recommended projects is included in a separate Part B report.

Emissions Trading and Deposit Return Scheme Update

Paul Morgan, Head of Commercial Services, will outline the potential impacts of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) on the Waste Levy for future years. The report details the planned introduction of DRS in October 2027, which may affect recyclate income, and the deferred inclusion of Energy from Waste (EfW) facilities in the ETS. The report highlights the financial risks associated with carbon allowance price volatility and proposes further actions, including continued lobbying for clarity on scheme timings and the establishment of a Carbon Allowance group to manage purchasing decisions.

Capital Programme and Assets Management Update

Michael Kelly, Head of Engineering and Asset Management, will provide updates on key capital and lifecycle projects for Quarters 1 and 2 of 2026-27. The report includes detailed progress summaries for the redevelopment of the Reliance Street Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), noting unforeseen ground conditions that have led to programme delays and an increased forecast project cost, which will be referred to the Combined Authority for approval. An update is also provided on the proposed new Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at Salford Road, Over Hulton, detailing planning delays due to noise concerns and the subsequent need for a building extension, which will also require an increase in the capital budget.

Biowaste and Garden Waste Charging Update

Justin Lomax, Head of Contract Services, will present an analysis of the effect of the introduction of charged garden waste collection services by Stockport MBC and Trafford MBC on waste flows. The report analyses changes in biowaste tonnage at the kerbside and garden waste tonnage at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). It indicates a reduction in kerbside biowaste collections in both districts and an increase in garden waste tonnage at affected HWRCs. The report also considers the impact of cross-boundary use of HWRCs and confirms that financial adjustments are made through the Levy Allocation Methodology Agreement (LAMA) to allocate costs back to the relevant districts.