Overview

• The Liberal Democrat motion passed on the Lord Mayor Henry Gallagher’s casting vote after a tie, with former council leader Nick Kemp abstaining.
• Only the Labour cabinet can approve a withdrawal, and local reporting indicates it is unlikely to do so.
• Labour leaders warn quitting now could expose the council to up to £30m and harm finances, a claim opposition councillors dispute.
• The Tees Valley Energy Recovery Facility is planned to handle up to 450,000 tonnes of waste a year under contracts that could run for up to 40 years, with opening targeted for 2029.
• Viridor has been confirmed as operator and the Environment Agency has issued a permit, as opponents argue the plan would impede recycling in a city with a 26% rate against a 65% national target for 2035.