CIWM to leave Torbay for London

Describing the decision to abandon its Torbay event, which has been held for more than 25 years, the Chartered Institution of Waste Management revealed that its trustees have decided to move to the Excel conference venue in East London.

The organisation has come under pressure from exhibitors in recent years for a different venue because some felt the Torbay event, held in Paignton, near Torquay was too remote.

A statement from the Institution described the new location as exciting and noted that it will also have a new industry partner. It said: “The decision, taken today (Wednesday April 16) by the CIWM Trustees at a Special Meeting in Northampton, will see this major event moving to London ExCel and teaming up with the Environmental Services Association, the industry's leading trade association.”

“In an industry that is moving as fast as this one, standing still is not an option,” said CIWM chief executive Steve Lee. “The new partnership with the ESA reflects our joint intention to develop the event into a major international showcase for the UK waste and resource management sector, and London ExCel is an award winning venue that will help us to achieve this.

Flagship

ESA Chief Executive Dirk Hazell said: “Our industry is undergoing a revolution with recycling quadrupled in the last decade and lots more to come. We all want a flagship event to promote Britain's emerging status as a leading member of Europe's Recycling Society. London is the place to be. ESA's partnership with CIWM is the team to deliver.”

CIWM and ESA will now be moving forward with plans to rebrand the event to reflect the new partnership, and exhibitors will be invited to an open day at London ExCel during May to see the facilities for themselves.

Income

In announcing the location change, the CIWM has also acknowledged the success and value of the relationship it has had with Torbay for the last 22 years.

The exhibition and conference is vital to the income of the CIWM and the organisation is hoping that it will give the event a new lease of life. Torbay council is expected to be disappointed by the decision although the local authority has been aware that a move away from Devon was on the cards.