Food waste collection set for six month delay

The introduction of weekly domestic food waste collections in part of Leicestershire could be delayed by six months due to equipment issues.

Harborough District Council had been due to start the service, which aims to cut the amount of food going to landfill, in November.

But a report to the authority states there have been delays to the delivery of the specialist vehicle fleet needed to operate the collections.

It recommends moving the launch to 1 April 2027 to ensure the service can be introduced "in a planned and efficient way".

Earlier this year, a BBC investigation found that one in four councils would not meet an original March deadline for food waste collections to all homes.

The proposed delay, the Harborough report said, also avoids introducing a major new collection service over the busy Christmas and New Year period and fits in with the renewal of other council contracts.

Every household is expected to receive a 7-litre caddy for indoor use and a 23-litre kerbside bin, along with an initial supply of biodegradable liners.

Cabinet members will consider the proposal at their meeting on 27 July, following delays.

David Page, cabinet lead for neighbourhood services, said: "We remain fully committed to introducing weekly food waste collections for residents, but it is important that we launch the service at the right time and in the most effective way.

"The delay to the delivery of the specialist collection vehicles is outside the council's control.

"This approach provides the best value for money, avoids unnecessary contractual and staffing complications, and ensures the service is delivered successfully from day one."

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