New Recycling Service

New Recycling Service coming soon

In October 2013 your existing recycling service (red box and bags) will be changing as the contract for this service comes to an end. This gives us the opportunity to bring in improvements.

Alongside the new recycling service, from October 2013 you will be able to place food waste in your green bin along with your garden waste!

You'll keep your black bin for non-recyclable waste which will be collected fortnightly. Your recycling and garden and food waste will be collected one week and your black bin will be emptied the following week.

We would like to hear from you with feedback about the existing recycling service and any improvements you would like to see in place for the new service. Please contact us here with your feedback and suggestions.

New Recycling Service FAQ's

Why is the service changing?

The current contract for the collection of recycling ends in October 2013 which gives us the opportunity to change the service and bring in improvements. It is hoped the new service will significantly increase the amount we recycle whilst offering cost savings.

What if I live in a flat?

Flats and apartments will be included in the new service. We will be visiting flats to assess their needs and where necessary will tailor the service so it suits the facilities available.

Couldn't you introduce the new service sooner than October 2013?

No. The existing contract for collecting recycling runs until October 2013 and the new service also requires a substantial amount of planning before it can be introduced.

What will I be able to recycle using the new service?

You will be able to recycle everything which you can recycle using the current red box and bags service. It is not known at the moment what additional items will be included.

How will I be able to compost food waste in my green bin and why can't I do this already?

When the new service begins in October 2013 we will change the way we process the contents of your green bin so that you will be able to include any food waste (including meat and fish). Food waste must be treated at higher temperatures than garden waste to kill of any bacteria and make it safe to use again. You can find out more about the process by watching this short video.

What do I do with my red box and bags when the new service starts?

This hasn't been decided yet.

I recycle loads, what can I do?

We want to encourage as much recycling as possible. When the new service is introduced we will provide extra capacity to recycle for those who need it.

Will my black bin smell if it's emptied fortnightly?

If your non-recyclable waste is contained within a tied bag and the bin lid is closed there should not be a problem with smell. Once the new service starts you will also be able to put food waste in your green bin.

I will have too much rubbish for a fortnightly black bin collection and my bin will be twice as heavy, what can I do?

Over 60% of the rubbish we produce can be recycled. By using the recycling and garden and food waste services to their full potential there should be plenty of space in the black bin for any remaining non-recyclable waste.

Can I have another black bin?

Households who are struggling to fit their waste into the standard sized bin due to specific circumstances e.g. due to the number of people living in the property or for medical reasons will be able to apply for an extra or larger black bin. A member of the Recycling Team will visit to review the application.

What if I do not want to use the new recycling service?

Using the recycling service is not compulsory, however you will not receive an extra black bin collection if you decide not to participate. If you have storage or access problems please contact us through the new service feedback form.