Building on the success of a pilot scheme in 2003, Doncaster Refurnish was subcontracted by SITA to provide bulky waste collections across the borough in 2009. This has resulted in greater diversion of waste from landfill, disposal cost savings, better provision of affordable goods to local people and new job opportunities.
Doncaster MBC wanted to maximise bulky waste re-use and build on its track record of working with third sector organisations when it procured a new integrated waste collection contract. Its restricted procurement process scored contract bids for added value, and included these specific requirements.
In April 2009 SITA was awarded the contract, and the subcontract to Doncaster Refurnish for a bulky household waste service started in October that year. Under this arrangement Doncaster Refurnish maximises re-use and recycling, with over 480 tonnes of material diverted from landfill in 2009/10 and annual disposal cost savings to the council of approximately £25,000. The charity’s recycling rate under the contract is now averaging 39%.
Over 4,000 low-income households have received affordable furniture and household goods since the start of the contract, and over 130 volunteer placements were provided in 2010/11.
