Decision details

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet recommends to Council the adoption of the proposed waste and recycling collection policy and new garden waste terms and conditions for the roll-out of new collection services as set out in the Waste Strategy 2022-2027.

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, in response to national and regional changes in the approach to management of waste and resources, as well as a desire to ensure that local goals were met, the Council had approved a new Waste Strategy 2022-27 in July 2022. The proposed policy aimed to reduce waste and increase recycling in the District.

The Performance and Projects Manager for Waste and Transport briefly presented the report, highlighting that the policy detailed the way in which the new Waste and Recycling Strategy would be implemented to ensure continuity for residents, and set out the roles of responsibilities of the Council and residents. The policy would also improve the efficiencies and working conditions for operatives in the service as well as improving the service for residents. Members were informed that assisted collections service would continue and that residents could apply for this service through the Council’s administrative systems.

Cabinet Members spoke in support of the proposed policy, acknowledging that it was a major change to the service. The level of public consultation had been extensive, and there was a need to recycle more.

Following a question from a non Cabinet Member, in relation to property suitability for the new core services, it was noted that the Council was working with Keep Britain Tidy to carry out a robust property survey within the District. This survey would, upon completion, be analysed by Council officers in order to ensure that the right service was provided to all properties.