Black bin collections to change to every three weeks

A council is set to introduce three-weekly bin collections despite local opposition.

West Berkshire Council currently collects black bins every two weeks, but said on Monday this would change to every three weeks from 22 September.

In a council survey run earlier this year, most people said they did not want a reduction in the frequency of refuse collections, and a petition was launched in May calling for the council to change its mind.

But the council said the change aimed to increase recycling, reduce waste and support long-term environmental goals.

Under the new plans, food waste will be collected weekly, recycling will be collected fortnightly, and black bins every three weeks.

West Berkshire Council said recent analysis showed 42% of black bin contents could be recycled, with 22% being food waste.

The authority said the figures highlighted "a big opportunity" to reduce the amount of waste thrown away.

Stuart Gourley, the council's executive member for environment and highways, said the changes would help create a "cleaner, greener West Berkshire".

"We understand that changes to waste collection can be challenging and feel disruptive, but we want to reassure residents that this decision has been made with significant thought, care, and a long-term vision for our community," he said.

"This change is necessary to ensure a more sustainable future for West Berkshire. By recycling more and reducing black bin waste, we can protect services, help the environment, and move towards our goal of recycling 60% of household waste by 2030."

The council said larger families or those with medical needs could apply for extra black bin space, and extra recycling containers were being offered free of charge.

Leaflets with more information will be distributed to households between 24 August and 5 September.

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