From April 2026, we began making changes to improve your recycling and waste collections. The changes will make it easier to recycle more, while providing a more convenient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly service.
Background to the changes
New Government legislation means we have to provide residents with a wider range of recycling options at home from April 2026.
Over 4,000 people took part in our ‘BIG Waste Conversation’, which asked residents about their waste collection preferences. Most wanted us to reduce the environmental impact of waste collections and supported the introduction of wheelie bins and new collections for glass, food waste and other small items.
View the BIG Waste Conversation survey results.
What are the changes?
Weekly food waste collections
Food waste collections were introduced in April 2026. Find out about food waste collections.
Wheelie bins and alternate weekly collections
From 12 October 2026, we introduced wheelie bins and alternate weekly waste and recycling collections for most residents. Find out more about wheelie bin collections.
Improvements to communal recycling facilities
In future years, we will provide additional communal recycling facilities for people who live in flats, allowing them to recycle food waste, textiles, small electrical items and other materials.
These changes should improve recycling rates and free up resources to help pay for the new recycling services.
They will also bring our waste collection services more closely in line with those of nearby councils that may merge with us in future years. This will help any newly formed unitary council to maximise cost and service efficiencies.
View our frequently asked questions for further information.