FAQs - The new brown bin service

The changes to your recycling service may mean you have some questions, the frequently asked questions on this page below will hopefully provide the answers you need to help you start recycling and using the service to its full potential.

When are the new bins being delivered?

Deliveries of 240l brown bins commenced on Monday the 21st of May & have now been completed. Please see below for further details about what to do if your bin has not been received. If you have your waste collected in sacks you will recieve a hessian bag in August.

I have not had a brown bin delivered - what should I do?

Do you use black sacks at your property? You will recieve a hessian sack in place of a wheeled bin due to the issues at your property. We anticipate that these alternative containers will be delivered during August.

If you have not had a new brown bin delivered and your neighbours have please contact us on 0845 129 4870 or 01298 28400. Delivery should take place within three to four weeks of us receiving your request.

How will I know what to put in my brown bin?

Alongside the new bin you should have been delivered a leaflet. This will detail the new service, what can be put into your brown bin and your collection dates from July 2012 onwards. More information is available on our dedicated webpage. 

When can I start using my brown bin?

 The first collection of the brown bins begins week commencing 2nd July. Please check your new calendar for your collection dates.

I don’t want the brown bin, do I have to have one?

We would advise you to accept your new brown bin, this will enable you to fully take part in our recycling services.

If you have any queries or feel the bin is too large for your needs please contact us on 0845 129 4870 or 01298 28423 and our Recycling Promoter will speak to you regarding your needs.

Please be aware though that if you don’t use your brown bin, you will just receive a fortnightly collection of black waste.

I don't have space at my property for three wheeled bins?

The standard sized brown wheeled bin is a 240l.   If you have received your new brown bin and you don't feel you can accomodate it please contact us on  0845 129 4870 or 01298 28423.Properties that use bags currently (rather than bins) will be provided with a hessian bag in August .

Alternatively you may wish to downsize your green lidded bin or black bin for a smaller one (140l), please contact us on  0845 129 4870 or 01298 28423 and this can be arranged. 

Please note that whilst smaller in volume the footprint of a smaller bin is almost the same as that of a larger bin.

The new bin is too big, can I have a smaller bin?

The new bin may seem large initially but as both plastics and cardboard are very bulky items it is felt that this size of bin is suitable for most households.

We would recommend that you use the new bin for a number of weeks before considering swapping to a smaller bin. We will not be able to swap the standard sized 240l bins for smaller ones until after the service starts in July.

If you feel that the 240l bin is too large we can exchange it for a 140l bin. Please contact us on  0845 129 4870 or 01298 28423 to arrange this.

Please note that whilst smaller in volume the footprint of a smaller bin is almost the same as that of a larger bin.

I use black sacks at my property will I receive a brown bin?

No, if our records show you use bags you will be issued with a new hessian style bag to use instead of a brown bin, these will be delivered in August. Glass should still be presented in your green box. As there is a delay in us receiving the hessian bags from the manufacturer we would request that from the 2nd July households present only glass in their box and the other remaining materials (plastics, cans, paper and cardboard) in their old blue bag.

I have an assisted collection for my green or black bin do I need to apply for an assisted collection for my brown bin?

No, your address will be carried across onto our records for assistance.

Can I speak to someone about the new service as I’m confused?

Our Customer Service Advisors should be able to assist with any queries that you may have about the service. Please call 01298 28400 if you require any further information. Alternatively you can use the online forms on the 'Contact Us' page & we will respond to your query by email.

What should I do with the old blue bag?

This bag will no longer be needed on the new service. You can either throw it away in your black bin or use it for another purpose within your home. If you are a property that is awaiting delivery of a hessian sack you may wish to use it in the interim to present your recyclables.