Get ready for a waste revolution in Stockton! 🌟 A major shift is coming to your bins, and we're here to break it down for you.
The Big Change: Weekly Recycling and Food Waste Collections
In a move to align with national legislation, Stockton-on-Tees Council is introducing some exciting updates to your waste collection routine. From March 31st, get ready for weekly recycling and food waste collections, and fortnightly collections for non-recyclable waste.
But here's where it gets controversial...
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has mandated these changes, aiming to simplify recycling across the country. Councillor Nigel Cooke believes this will encourage households to recycle more, as Stockton's current recycling rate is the lowest in the Tees Valley.
Food Waste Collections: A New Normal
Starting in April 2026, every household in England, including flats and communal housing, will receive weekly food waste collections. Residents will be equipped with a 5-litre indoor food caddy for the kitchen and a 23-litre outdoor caddy, complete with biodegradable liners and clear instructions.
And this is the part most people miss...
After the service begins, replacement liners will be supplied free of charge! Simply tie a ribbon to the handle of your food waste caddy when you need a re-order.
Recycling Gets a Boost
All other recycling will also be collected weekly. Each household will receive an additional weighted bag for plastics, cans, and cartons, in addition to the current white bag for paper and card and the blue box for glass and batteries.
There's more! New kerbside collections for clothes, shoes, and small electrical and electronic equipment will be introduced.
Garden Waste Collections: An Optional Service
Garden waste collections are available for an annual fee of £40 per year, with fortnightly collections from March to November. For larger gardens, additional bins are an option at £25 each. New subscribers will receive a brand new brown garden waste bin.
Collection Days and Assisted Collections
Some residents may see a change in their collection day due to these updates. The council will inform those affected, and households can also check on the council's website or app.
Assisted collections will continue as usual for those who receive this service.
Back alley properties, which have historically faced fly-tipping issues, will continue to receive weekly residual waste collections along with recycling and food waste collection.
So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to Stockton's bin collection changes. Are you ready for the transition? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. 🌍🗑️
