Issue - meetings

Purpose

To update the cabinet member on the outcomes of the previously approved weekly wheeled bins and weekly bin bag trials to include feedback from all trials;

To ratify the strategy for retaining weekly refuse collection whilst increasing recycling rates; and;

To update members on the progress of the changes being implemented to retain weekly refuse collections.

RECCOMENDATIONS

That the Cabinet Member:

1)            Notes the outcomes of the weekly wheeled bins and weekly bin bag trials and approves the strategy for retaining weekly refuse collections whilst increasing recycling rates; and;

2)            Notes the progress of the rollout and approves changes to the waste management policy.

Colette Hill, Assistant Director for Assistant Director of Neighbourhoods, Property and Housing introduced the report.

In response to questions, she clarified the following points:

·         As stated in section 2.6 of the policy, exceptions may be permitted during the Christmas period. The trials included two Christmas periods; there was no collection in the first year and during the second, an extra two bags were permitted upon request.  It is important that residents continue to recycle as much as possible throughout the year.  The collection dates for the Christmas period will be widely publicised.

·         Extra recycling material can be put next to the green bin if it is full.

·         Residents are asked to break down cardboard packaging to fit in the bin.

·         There is not a massive recycling market for plastics. 

·         Small electrical items can be put on top of the green bin in a carrier/ paper bag.

·         Work is being carried out to extend the range of items that can be recycled.

·         There is no limit on the number of bags that can fit into the new waste bins, provided that the lid closes.

Councillor Ashmore was pleased to note that a thorough Equalities Impact Assessment had been carried out and that there is an assisted delivery available for residents who might struggle to move their bins due to having a disability.

DECISIONS

The Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety noted:

1)    The outcomes of the weekly wheeled bins and weekly bin bag trials and approves the strategy for retaining weekly refuse collections whilst increasing recycling rates

2)    The progress of the rollout and approves changes to the waste management policy