The Viridor-run Heathfield landfill in Newton Abbot has provided a disposal outlet for over 8 million tonnes of waste from local authorities and businesses across Devon since 1980.
The site has also generated over £5 million for local projects over its lifetime via the Landfill Communities Fund – which uses a reclaimed proportion of landfill tax.
It is one of a growing number of landfills now reaching expiry. Last year, the ‘iconic’ Packington landfill site near the Birmingham NEC closed its gates after nearly 50 years in operation (see letsrecycle.com story).
Better recycling and energy recovery technology has accelerated their decline, with operators now able to dispose of waste more sustainably.
Waste previously sent to the landfill will now go to Viridor’s Exeter Energy Recovery Facility, a 60,000 tonne capacity plant delivered in partnership with Devon county council which opened in 2014 (see letsrecycle.com story).
Aftercare
Viridor will continue to manage the aftercare of the Heathfield site, harnessing the landfill gas from the decomposing waste for energy purposes. The remaining land will be capped and restored, with Viridor working alongside the Devon Wildlife Trust to introduce biodiversity to new woodland and heathland habitats.
Ian Morrish, director of Landfill Energy for Viridor, said: “Over the last 30 years the team at Heathfield have worked tirelessly to responsibly manage waste from the South West. The site was an important pioneer in the production of reliable renewable energy from landfill gas.
“Today marks the end of an important chapter in Viridor and for the site, and it’s fantastic to welcome members of the team past and present. However, this is not the end of the story as we will work over the coming years to continue to manage the power generation and to restore the site to blend in with the surrounding Devon countryside.
“We thank our employees, customers and partners for their contributions at Heathfield over the past 35 years.”
Returning for the closing ceremony today, Arthur Price, the original site manager, added: “It is a real milestone to see the site receive its last delivery, having developed and provided a reliable source of waste treatment for many years. Viridor has grown rapidly since my days with the company, and it is fantastic that the team, including my son Matt, today are now able to focus on restoring the site to allow nature to return and develop new habitats.”
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