Decision details

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet recommends to Council the adoption of the proposed garden waste fees as set out in Appendix 1 of the report, applicable from 1 April 2024.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

As set out in the report.

KEY DECISION:

Report to Cabinet and Council.

PORTFOLIO:

Environment and Sustainability.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

None.

DISCUSSION:

In the absence of the Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, the report was introduced by the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Homelessness.

The Portfolio Holder reminded members that, as of April 2024, changes to improve the Garden Waste collection service would occur and that subscribers would see an increase in their recycling capacity by way of the new 240 litre bins.

The Assistant Director for Place Operations briefly presented the report. Members heard that the fees for the Garden Waste collection service had previously been amongst the lowest in the County. The proposed fee of £65 per-year was comparable to the median fee across the County. New bins would be provided ahead of the April 2024 roll-out and the new scheme would run on a 12 month cycle.

Cabinet Members spoke in support of the proposed charges, acknowledging that the new charges were in line with their counterparts across Hampshire, whilst also doubling the capacity available for some residents. Cabinet Members felt that the move to wheeled bins was a more sustainable approach to the existing, plastic sacks, and improvements to the safety and efficiency experienced by collection staff were welcomed.