A new £9 million waste depot has been opened in Edinburgh.

The site at Seafield will increase efficiency by providing a single base for waste collection and street cleansing staff in the east of the city.

The facility has been upgraded as part of a £30m review of the local authorities depots estate. It will significantly improve on existing services, prioritising the health and safety of employees and providing better shelter for vehicles, which will extend life expectancy and enhance day-to-day reliability.

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In addition, a tipping facility has been provided for the end of shifts, instead of current arrangements which require off-site tipping.

Cllr Lesley Hinds said: "This new facility at Seafield will not only provide a more comfortable, suitable depot for staff, but will enhance the service by simplifying route management.

"Along with the introduction of new residual and food waste-processing plants at Millerhill, investment in our portfolio of depots is essential for providing a modern, efficient waste and cleansing service."

Plans have also been submitted to develop a similar facility at Bankhead in the north-west of the city, to be completed by 2018.

Both plants will serve a modern Energy from Waste (EfW) plant for Edinburgh and Midlothian, located at Millerhill. The scheme sits alongside a new food waste treatment plant, and will help drive down the amount of waste sent to landfill for partner councils once completed in 2019.

(LM/MH)