Warehouse & Distribution

Mechanical Biological Treatment Facility

Waterbeach

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Client: Amey

Project: MBT facility refurbishment and upgrade in Cambridgeshire.

Cost: £32M

Services: Project Management , Quantity Surveying

RIBA Project Stages: 0 - 7

The replacement, extension and fire damage restoration of an MBT facility at Waterbeach Waste Management Park.

The opportunity

Following a major mechanical failure and subsequent fire at AmeyCespa’s MBT facility in Waterbeach, a full replacement and refurbishment of the affected plant was required. The malfunction had disrupted operations at a crucial waste processing line, which handles black bag waste for composting. TPI led the reconstruction and enhancement of the facility to restore and improve its functionality.

The challenge

The complex Spanish-made Rotopala composting system required full removal and replacement. This included coordination of new mechanical, electrical, and civil works across the facility, along with significant upgrades to the compost hall. TPI managed the integration of a new air handling system and carefully oversaw the installation and commissioning of the specialist composting machinery.

The outcome

The restored MBT plant was delivered ahead of schedule, with commissioning starting earlier than anticipated. The upgraded compost hall now processes up to 132,000 tonnes of sorted and shredded waste annually, significantly improving operational capacity and reliability at the site.

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