We need to make sure that as much rubbish as possible is recycled, because space for dumping rubbish is running out and reducing rubbish will help cut carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Results from other local authorities show this collection method to be the most effective way of protecting the environment, meeting legislative requirements and controlling costs of rubbish disposal. Costs associated with rubbish disposal are rising rapidly via landfill tax and potential fines.
Will this scheme lead to an increase in fly tipping in the district?
The Council does not anticipate this being a problem based on evidence from elsewhere. To report fly tipping please complete the online form.
Why am I continuing to pay full Council Tax when you are halving my service?
Every household will still have a weekly collection service, one week recycling and one week for the remaining household waste. We’re just collecting different types of waste at different times instead of all at once.
What time do I need to put my bin out for collection??
Each household will have two bins. The bins will be dark green and light green. The light green bin will be used for collecting recyclable materials (paper, cans, cardboard, glass and plastic bottles), and the dark green bin for remaining rubbish. Crews will pick up the recycling bin one week and the rubbish bin the next. For more information phone our helpline on 01784 451499.
Why does it all have to be so confusing?
The new service has been designed to be as simple as possible. We will be happy to explain any aspect of the new service to you.
Why can’t I have all my rubbish collected on the same day?
This will not be possible with the new system. All of your rubbish is still being collected, just in different weeks. These changes will encourage more households to take full advantage of the recycling service, which will be improved to include plastic bottles and cardboard. This in turn will mean that less is sent to landfill.
What happens to material that isn’t recycled?
Currently most of it goes into landfill, but the problem is that we are running out of space.
What is the law regarding changes to rubbish collection?
Under Section 46 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 the Council can state the receptacles and the steps a household waste producer must follow when placing rubbish out for collection. If rubbish is then placed in breach of the policy, this is an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and a fine of £100 pounds can be charged. However, the Council tries to resolve all these issues through advice and help.
Why collect garden waste for composting separately? Doesn’t it compost in landfill anyway?
As green waste rots in landfill it releases leachate (polluting liquid) and methane gas which contributes to climate change. It is much better to compost this material in controlled conditions and prevent these problems by turning waste into a useful product.
Will ‘doing my bit’ make a difference?
Yes. By using the new service you will be reducing the negative effects of climate change, reducing landfill space and controlling the costs of rubbish collection.
It will reduce the amount of flies and vermin, help prevent smells and stop loose rubbish from falling out of the bin.
I live in a flat. How will the new collection arrangements affect me?
Many properties have been assessed on an individual basis.However it is not possible for us to devise a unique solution for everyone. Many flats that do not have storage spaces for bins will, for the time being stay on a weekly rubbish collection scheme until a better solution can be found.
Who do I go to if I have a problem or want to find out more?
Either call our customer helpline on 01784 451499 or email customer.services@spelthorne.gov.uk. If necessary we can send someone to talk to you about any issues or concerns.
Does the Council have the authority to say when and where the collection takes place?
Yes the local authority can specify which substances can/cannot be put in the bins, any precautions which must be taken where particular substances are put in the bin and any steps which must be taken by occupiers of premises to facilitate collection of waste, including where and when the receptacles must be placed for collection.
How much of my council tax goes towards rubbish and recycing collection? The cost of waste collection is £42.13 per household per year which works out as 81 pence per week which is not a huge proportion of the council tax.
Did the Government issue a report recently stating that local authorities shouldn't adopt AWC?
The recent House of Commons report from the Communities and Local Government Committee on refuse collection stated it an AWC system is not suitable for every area (e.g. cities and urban areas), and that local authorities are better placed than anyone to know what will work in their local areas. www.wrap.org.uk and www.defra.gov.uk have further information about alternate weekly collections.
