Decision details

As part of the introduction of In Cab Technology to our waste and recycling collection fleet, we are reviewing our services to ensure we achieve high levels of customer service whilst operating efficiently and reduce the carbon impact of our services.

Our garden waste vehicles currently drive around every road in the district on a fortnightly basis to check whether properties have opted into the chargeable garden waste service and have bins or sacks out for collection.

The new technology in the vehicles allows us to be more efficient in our approach. It will route the collection crews to all subscription bins each fortnight, with a simple online booking form for residents to request paper sacks collections (and Christmas trees in January) on their next scheduled fortnightly collection. This method is used by our neighbouring authorities effectively.

The change in approach encourages use of garden waste wheeled bins on an annual subscription as the core service but retains flexibility and convenience for residents wanting to purchase of paper sacks and use the service on an ad hoc basis.

Collection vehicles will therefore only be sent to properties which present garden waste for collection making the service more efficient and sustainable.

This decision has been made in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods.

To introduce a booking system for garden waste sacks to help achieve efficiencies and support the climate emergency declaration by reducing any unnecessary vehicle miles.

Option 1 - To continue as now with crews directed to drive all roads within the district within the fortnightly schedule. This option was discounted due to the lack of environmental or economic benefit.

Option 2 - To introduce a simple online (or via telephone to Council Connect) booking system for garden waste sacks and Christmas trees to make use of the new technology and make the service more efficient and sustainable.