Viridor GRREC Pest Control
Last updated: 2.38pm, Thursday 6th November 2025
This project involved the design and delivery of a comprehensive pest control solution at Viridor’s Glasgow Recycling and Renewable Energy Centre (GRREC) a state-of-the-art residual waste treatment facility. The facility became fully operational on 28 January 2019, producing enough energy to power the equivalent of 26,496 households and heat around 8,000 homes, while delivering an annual saving of 90,000 tonnes of CO₂.
DELIVERY
Due to the nature of the plant set-up, the GRREC facility presented ideal conditions for pest activity — with an abundant food source, available water, and sheltered areas with few natural predators. These conditions created a significant challenge in maintaining hygiene and operational safety.
Pests posed a risk to both workers and the public, with the potential to spread disease and damage critical infrastructure by gnawing through electrical cables. An effective, humane, and compliant pest control strategy was essential.
SOLIS Group was appointed to design and implement a long-term pest management solution. All on-site technicians were BPCA (British Pest Control Association) qualified, ensuring professional and ethical pest control delivery.
WORKS INCLUDED
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Site Assessment: Initial surveys identified multiple entry points and nesting sites, particularly around low-level structural gaps and drainage channels.
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Access Prevention: Metal mesh was fitted to all kerb drainage holes to prevent pest movement through the sewerage system without affecting site drainage.
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Environmental Controls: Landscaping and site housekeeping improvements were introduced to remove nesting opportunities — clearing debris, cutting back overgrown areas, and maintaining tidy perimeters.
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Bird Control: Following a Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) audit triggered by noise and hygiene complaints, SOLIS installed discreet bird spikes on roof areas to deter perching and roosting. These humane measures successfully redirected flocks without harm, improving on-site hygiene and safety for staff and visitors.
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Monitoring & Reporting: Technicians implemented live digital reporting with photographic evidence and introduced QR code stations across the site, enabling staff to log sightings. Comprehensive monthly reports detail activity levels, catch rates, and method effectiveness.
IMPACT
Through a combination of preventative maintenance, continuous monitoring, and transparent reporting, SOLIS Group successfully reduced pest activity and mitigated environmental risks across the GRREC facility.
This proactive partnership has improved operational safety, enhanced hygiene standards, and ensured compliance with environmental and health regulations.