URL: https://democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3995

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To present options in relation to simpler recycling for waste collection

Content: RESOLVED that:   i.       Cabinet approves a separate kerbside glass collection service, to be introduced boroughwide from Autumn 2026 as outlined in section 6 and that the additional revenue costs as detailed in paragraph 7.2 are added to the Commitment Budget.   ii.     Cabinet approves that the glass recycling banks are reduced by at least half across the borough as explained in 6.12.   RECOMMENDED that Council supports an in year Supplementary Capital Approval of £0.980m for the vehicles needed to deliver the service and £0.800m for the containers, this would enable orders to be placed for these as soon as possible to ensure production slots are secured. To comply with the Simpler Recycling legislation all local authorities are expected to collect a core list of materials for recycling or composting. i.       Co-mingled collection would mean that the glass is included in blue bins along with the other dry recyclables. This system is simple for residents and does not require extra containers. Collection round and route changes would be minimal, and communications would be straightforward.   ii.     Comingled collection would require two additional collection vehicles: a 26-tonne vehicle and an 18-tonne vehicle, as well as one extra delivery box van. Six extra crew members are needed, including two LGV (light goods vehicle) drivers, three loaders, and one non-LGV driver. The lead time for these vehicles is up to 14 months. The BFC waste team would also require one extra staff member (0.5 FTE). To minimise impact of extra vehicles on climate change hydro treated vegetable oil (HVO) could be used to fuel the vehicles to minimise CO2e impacts, however this will cost more than using diesel. Detailed cost information is in the restricted appendix 1.   iii.    In order to collect glass in the blue bins alongside the other recyclables significant work is required at the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) in Reading which is where the kerbside collection ends up. The work required is needed to upgrade the facility so it can separate glass from paper, card, plastics, tins and cans. This facility is shared with re3 partners, Reading and Wokingham Councils. The MRF is 16 years old and making additions to it so it can handle glass would not extend the life of the rest of the facility. The costs of these amendments make co-mingled collection the most expensive option. Detailed cost information is in the restricted appendix 1. None

Date of Decision: June 24, 2025