Lichfield District Council looks to sell commercial waste service

The service provides residual waste and dry mixed recycling collections to around 470 businesses across Lichfield District and the surrounding area.

Its customer base includes independent retailers, hospitality businesses and larger commercial premises.

The council is exploring the potential sale as the commercial waste sector prepares for the next phase of Simpler Recycling requirements in March 2027.

Councillor Phil Whitehouse, Cabinet Member for Operational Services, Parks and Waste at Lichfield District Council, said: “Our trade waste service has been built up over many years and supports around 470 businesses across Lichfield District and the surrounding area.

“As the commercial waste market develops in response to new national recycling requirements, we are inviting interest from experienced operators who can build on that established customer base and provide the range of services businesses will require in the future.

“We have already seen interest through preliminary market engagement and are now opening up the opportunity more widely to the sector.”

The district council said that vehicles and its workforce are not included in the proposed sale, but the existing customer base and contractual arrangements would be.

The closing date for initial expressions of interest is 15 September 2026, and are expected to include an indicative value.

Following assessment of submissions, operators meeting the relevant quality criteria may be invited to participate in a subsequent online auction process, subject to the council completing the appropriate decision-making process.

Further information can be found by emailing procurement@lichfielddc.gov.uk.