**Millions in England to Face Delayed Bin Collections**
A significant number of residents in England are set to experience a delay in their waste collection services as more than two million individuals will have to wait an additional week for their bins to be emptied. The change includes non-recyclable waste pickups occurring every three weeks in various regions across the country, raising concerns among residents about potential issues like fly-tipping and increased rat infestations, as witnessed in Birmingham due to a recent refuse collectors’ strike.
Affected by this alteration are residents in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, who now have up to four wheelie bins, causing inconvenience and health concerns for some families. The overflowing bins have attracted swarms of flies, making it challenging for children like Jessica Parker’s toddler to play outside.
Local opposition has been strong in some areas, with councils in Berkshire, Essex, Sussex, Suffolk, Cheshire, and Lancashire facing backlash from residents. Despite concerns, some authorities believe the change will benefit the environment, with a focus on more efficient waste management practices such as weekly food waste collections, fortnightly recyclable pickups, and three-weekly collections for residual waste.
While some councils have faced backlash and amended their plans following public outcry, others like North Herts Council and South Gloucestershire Council are moving forward with the new waste collection schedules. Council representatives emphasize the positive outcomes of the changes, such as increased space in waste bins, cost savings, reduced carbon emissions, and a push for higher recycling rates.
In response to the evolving waste collection landscape, government officials have expressed commitment to standardizing waste management practices across England. Starting from March next year, every household in the country will receive weekly food waste collections, aligning with the government’s aim to promote recycling, reduce waste, and enhance the cleanliness of streets nationwide.
