FAIRCLOTH GROUP NEWS

London Waste

16/04/2009

Residents living near a large re-cycling and compost centre are enjoying the sweet smell of fresh air - thanks to a huge new compost container constructed by Faircloth.

The London Waste EcoPark Composter in north London, operated by Agrivert, asked Faircloth to provide a new composter which would minimize the effect on the local community.

The idea is that fresh air is allowed in during the composting process while the amount of stale air getting out is minimised and neutralized.

The centre takes in enormous amounts of green garden waste and kitchen scraps from boroughs across north London. This reduces the amount of rubbish which ends up in over-crowded landfill sites.

The waste material is then sent through a series of tunnels where it is chopped and shredded. Moisture and temperature levels must be kept constant to ensure the composting process, but this can cause unpleasant smells for the local community.

With the help of engineers from Clark Smith Partnership, Faircloth produced a 4,500 sqm composter within a 45m span with bio filters which maintains a negative pressure to allow fresh air to flow in but stops stale air escaping.

The structure took 18 weeks to complete and includes in situ reinforced concrete push walls to the parameter and a large span steel trussed structure. The cladded container also has lighting and mechanical ventilation.

Engineer Tony East of Clark Smith Partnership said: "The project went very well and the composter is now fully operational.

"We have been working with Faircloth for the past 20 years and have a long standing, successful relationship."