Issue - meetings

Tim Rawlings from B&NES Waste Services team was not available to attend the meeting to discuss the changes to waste collections. (the update is included in the minutes).

The points that were highlighted by Dave Dixon:

·  It is important that residents and Councillors make contact with the waste team as soon as possible if they have any concerns about the collection arrangements for specific properties. The cut-off date has been extended to 31^st July 2017.

·  A large number of collection concerns have already been dealt with.

·  There are several reasons behind the changes, these are to create a more efficient collection service using the replacement  vehicles; reduce the mess created by having unsealed receptacles; increasing the level of recycling by maintaining weekly collections.

·  We want to make sure that we are working with the residents to get the changes being made right. It is important that people have a chance to see how the new system is working for them.

  Questions and observations:

1.  Where there is only a small amount of general rubbish generated each week could this be put out is a carrier bag?

Response – The new scheme will require residents to use the container that they are provided with, these will be the only ways rubbish will be collected. Residents with smaller amounts of rubbish could skip putting out their container if it is only partially full.

2.  What is the advantage in sorting the recycling at the point of collection?

Response – The industry believes that the system that we are using is the correct way to gain the best quality and price for recycled materials.

3.  Will the existing people that have received assisted collections automatically be renewed into the new arrangements?

Response from Tim Rawlings following the meeting - All residents who have received assisted collections in the past have been contacted and asked if they will still need assistance once the new methods in place. The Waste Team are following up with people that have not yet responded to the initial letter. If there is anybody that feels the changes warrant them needing assistance then they will need to let Waste Service know.

4.  Will there be any changes to collections from private roads?

Response from Tim Rawlings following the meeting – Collections should not be affected, residents will be asked as before to put there containers to the edge/front of their property.

5.  What is the situation with trade collections where purple sacks are purchased?

Response from Tim Rawlings following the meeting – Trade collections are unaffected and will continue in the normal way.

6.  Anybody with a request for additional support for their area can contact Tim Rawlings on 01225 395205 or tim_rawlings@bathnes.gov.uk