Agenda item

Report of BWC – Tracy Croft.

This was an update on Stapleton Road recycling and refuse collection pilot project which started in October 2016 in order to respond to complaints from members and residents regarding fly tipping near communal bins and poor waste management in the area. The representatives of Bristol Waste Company reported that as a result of the pilot there had been an increase of recycling rates, an improvement in residents’ management of waste and a reduction in street cleansing. Bristol Waste had worked closely with enforcement officers to bring about these changes. The pilot was therefore considered to be a success and it was recommended that the arrangements be adopted for a longer term in the area.

The following comments arose from discussion:-

1. Councillor Keen had noticed dramatic improvements in the last month as a result of the range of measures, adding that this helped restore pride to an area. She asked whether there had been any feedback regarding retail businesses becoming responsible for keeping tidy the space outside their shop. She was informed that as part of a trial in BS5 the Business Improvement District had agreed a business pledge which covered this matter. She suggested that the results of this trial be reported before rolling it out in other areas;

2. Bristol Waste had knocked on doors in the area to inform residents that they could request nets or lids for their recycling box in order to prevent waste blowing away. Inevitably some of this was as a result of Bristol Waste collectors failing to pick up waste that had dropped. This was not good for the brand and a behaviour change plan was planned for collectors. If road names were supplied, it was possible to find out which crew had worked there;

3. A resident asked what the position was regarding private land being used by the public as a dumping ground, and used, as an example, pub car parks. She added that she had previously moved waste to a public area and then reported it to Bristol Waste to collect. In response, she heard that Bristol Waste had no contract to go onto private land and health and safety issues also prevented them becoming involved. It was a matter for Council enforcement officers;

4. It would not be possible to pre-label bins for each household as it would be too costly and time consuming to deliver. Consideration was being given to making stickers available online for community groups to improve areas;

5. It was the responsibility for householders to look after their waste. Bristol Waste would not collect black bin side waste;

6. It was noted that it was not possible to compare recycling rates to other areas with a scheme as it was only relevant to households with bins and not black bags;

7. It was not intended to roll out the pilot significantly but individual streets would be targeted in the future. Bristol Waste worked with community engagement teams in communicating with Councillors and residents for particular areas;

8. It was not possible to comment on the reaction of individuals or businesses at the receipt of a fixed penalty notice as this was undertaken by enforcement;

9. On being put to the vote, the NP was unanimously in favour of retaining the pilot.

RESOLVED – that the new collection method is adopted for the longer term in this area.