Agenda item

The Panel viewed a presentation from the Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Tim Ball and Waste Services officers which covered the following:

·  Keynsham Recycling Hub – Waste and Recycling Update

·  Fleet

·  Fleet transition plan

·  Climate emergency highlights

·  Current key workstreams

·  Waste reforms – legislation changes

·  Bath Recycling Centre (maps)

·  Bath Recycling Centre Update

·  Bath Recycling Centre – example of a similar construction

·  Bath Recycling Centre – next steps

Panel members raised the following points and asked the following questions:

Councillor Johnson commented that there are no waste statistics in the report and no idea of the tonnage going to landfill. He stated that it would also be useful to know the numbers on recycling rates and also on vehicles/EV (electric vehicles). The officer stated that she could circulate full details.

Councillor Johnson asked about behavioural initiatives regarding the existing fleet eg. Driving styles/anti idling etc. The Cabinet Member stated that the aim is to have the fleet electrified by 2027. Some diesel trucks will be retained to ensure continuation of service.

Councillor Player stated that she had viewed the application online but it was difficult to access. She asked why the Fullers Earth works site was not suitable and also why is the proposed new site so near to the Keynsham facility. The officer explained that there is a statement on this with the planning application. The Cabinet Member stated that the site mentioned above was not suitable due to excess traffic. The proposed new site will have a booking system so traffic will not be queuing so there will be no more traffic than there is now. Councillor Player asked if this response could be sent to her.

Councillor David asked what the Council can do to reduce the amount of waste in black bin bags. The officer stated that food waste is a key target, she will send a full written response. The Cabinet Member stated that there will be a trial of recycling bags and a push to make sure all resident properties have a food waste recycling option.

Councillor Box stated that food waste recycling is not high in her area and asked about the scope for providing waste bags. The officer explained that in the new contract, any containers/bags can be used. In response to a question from Councillor Collins, the officer explained that bags (compostable or otherwise) are pulled out anyway, the liners go to energy from waste.

Councillor Wright stated that recycling is a two way process, residents want to take part. Community visits to waste sites helps. She asked what engagement there had been with the Environment Agency to date. The officer explained that the Environment Agency response is on the website, the Council is working with them and this is separate from the planning application.

Councillor Johnson asked when clothes recycling will be available again. The officer explained that they are looking at a new provider for this service. The officer also agreed to let the Panel know the figure on the regulations.

Councillor Player asked if 3 staff would be adequate for all of the responsibilities such as administration, gull control and helping people with access. The officer stated that she would get a written statement to members.

Councillor David asked about planning in terms of 16 homes being given approval in her ward which would mean bins on the pavement. The officer confirmed that the departments works closely with highways.

Councillor Wright asked about plans for recycling material such as batteries/computer monitors etc. The officer stated that these items are taken at Welton and Pixash Lane.

Councillor Player asked how the Council ensures that residents are recycling as much as they can and in the right way. The officer stated that they can give a further detailed response. She explained that there are two waste education officers covering the district. The Cabinet Member added that there is a door knocking scheme.

Councillor Wait stated that Bristol (City Council) and others are moving to monthly black bag collections. Do we have plans for this? The Cabinet Member stated that there were no plans here.

Councillor Box asked if the Cabinet Member will put the department forward for any awards as they are outstanding. The Cabinet Member stated that this was a good idea.

The Chair thanked the Cabinet Member and officers.