The aim of the project is understood to involve looking at state-of-the-art solutions to waste management with an emphasis on finding alternatives to landfill.
Increased recycling as well as construction of a large waste to energy plant, which could serve Milton Keynes, is one of the options.
The area has a high number of landfills nearby, mostly in the old brickfields of Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire.
Few details of the project have yet been revealed and both parties are known to be keen to emphasise that an all round approach will be taken when it is unveiled to the public.
Mike Averill, chief executive of Shanks confirmed that there had been talks with the council and that “We are evaluating a number of options in Milton Keynes.”
Councillor Roger Bristow, chairman of Milton Keynes environment committee said that there had been discussions with Shanks and that the council wanted to develop a positive all-round approach to waste minimisation, recycling and waste management.
It is thought that the project would also serve areas beyond the boundaries of Milton Keynes including parts of London and could have rail links.
Meanwhile, news is expected soon on how the Cory Environmental contract for collection of recyclables and refuse in Milton Keynes will proceed following talks between the contractor and the council.
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