South Gloucestershire to Move to Three-Weekly Black Bin Collections
South Gloucestershire Council will be changing its black rubbish bin collections from fortnightly to every three weeks, effective from May 2026.
This significant shift is part of a broader strategy to boost recycling rates and deliver better value for money for residents. Crucially, food waste and recycling collections will remain weekly, ensuring that residents can continue to dispose of their most common waste streams frequently.
This change follows the council’s award of a new £120 million, eight-year contract to SUEZ, the kerbside waste collection provider. Councillor Sean Rhodes, Cabinet Member for Recycling and Waste, emphasized that these adjustments will not only enhance the efficiency of waste services but also contribute to the council’s environmental goals.
In addition to the revised black bin schedule, several other positive changes are being introduced. The council will launch a free fortnightly subscription service for nappies and other absorbent hygiene products, offering a practical solution for families and individuals. Furthermore, food waste collections will be expanded to include flats, and soft plastic recycling is set to be rolled out to all households, making it easier for everyone to recycle more.
To support these new collection methods and reduce the environmental impact of waste services, new black bin vehicles will be introduced, specifically designed to cut carbon emissions.
Residents should also be aware that from August 2025, approximately 85% of households will have a new collection day for both black bins and recycling. Specific details regarding these new collection dates will be announced by the council in due course.
Councillor Rhodes acknowledged that such changes can be challenging but reassured residents that a comprehensive guide will be produced to explain all the new arrangements and provide updated collection dates. This proactive communication aims to help residents manage their waste effectively during the transition period.
South Gloucestershire is not alone in making this move; it joins other authorities in the West, including North Somerset Council, in adopting a three-weekly black bin collection schedule. This regional alignment in waste management strategies reflects a growing commitment to improving recycling performance and environmental sustainability across the area.
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