Decision details

This report sets out the results of a review into the garden waste collection service.

The Council has provided a free garden waste collection service since 2005.  This discretionary service costs approximately £336,000 a year to provide.

A recent decision taken by Hampshire County Council will mean that the Borough Council will no longer benefit from the recovery of costs for material recycling, from April 2021 onwards.  This decision will place a financial burden on the Borough Council estimated at approximately £400,000 a year.   To offset this additional cost, it will be necessary to introduce a charge for the garden waste collection service.

The proposals for the future are set out in the report and have the potential to ensure that the Garden Waste Service is self-funded.  The proposals would also generate a significant new revenue stream for the Council which would help to offset the loss of material recycling income as well as contributing to the £4.3 million shortfall in the Council’s medium-term financial plan.

RESOLVED that the Executive agrees that:

(a)  the introduction of a new chargeable garden waste scheme, commencing on 01 February 2022, be approved;

(b)  an annual subscription of £50 for a 140-litre and £60 for a 240-litre wheeled bin be approved;

(c)  a bin purchase charge of £32 for a 140-litre and £34 for a 240-litre wheeled bin be approved;

(d)  a 50% early bird discount for a bin purchase be offered in year 1 of the scheme;

(e)  a budget of £296,400 for the procurement and delivery of wheeled bins, a marketing campaign and temporary administration support be approved; and

(f)   the Council will work with Hampshire County Council to further promote home composting of garden and food waste.