It is all change on the black bin collection front from next Monday (September 22) in West Berkshire.
Big changes are coming to black bin collections in West Berkshire starting next Monday (September 22).
The council has prioritised bin enquiries on their direct phone options and has sent out collection calendars and information leaflets.
They are shifting to three-weekly bin collections to boost recycling rates and save some cash.
A dedicated webpage for the new collection schedule has been launched, tailored to different areas of West Berkshire.
To tackle potential pest problems, the council has published guidelines. They advise rinsing non-recyclable packaging and keeping bin lids closed, stressing that food waste—including pet food—should never be left exposed.
Residents are encouraged to double-bag nappies and hygiene products. However, food bin collections will remain weekly.
Despite some backlash, the council insists this is the right move. They highlight that 42% of black bin waste could have been recycled, showing a significant opportunity for residents to do better.
West Berkshire ranks among the top 10% for waste production in England, placing 25th out of over 300 areas for waste generated per person (Defra, 2023/24).
Collection days will stay the same, and communal bin stores for flats will not change.
Stuart Gourley, chief binfluencer at West Berkshire Council, stated, "We understand that changes to waste collection can be challenging, but we assure residents this decision has been made with careful thought and a long-term vision for our community."
For more details, check the bin day collection calendar at www.westberks.gov.uk/binday.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
