The Committee considered a report setting out the design, mobilisation, and go live plan for introducing kerbside glass collections.

The report explained that central government had set a compliance date for glass and food collection of 1 April 2026, but that like many local authorities across the country Reading faced logistical and procurement challenges in meeting this date.  Reading had been ahead of many other councils in the conversion of the fleet’s vehicles to electric vehicles and had therefore engaged extensively with the vehicle supply market in consideration of all options currently available to deliver this service.  This engagement had identified that there were limited manufacturers for the size and configuration of vehicle required (narrow with low entry), with the only viable option currently in manufacture being diesel powered.  Due to supply chain delays (vehicles and containers), the practical start of the service was predicted to be April 2027. These delays were a direct consequence of multiple local authorities all working towards the government’s timetable.  Whilst the consequential delays were unwelcome, they allowed for a joint programme of service enhancement to also include flexible plastics on recycling rounds, which was required from April 2027.

The report further explained that a comprehensive implementation plan would underpin the introduction of kerbside glass and flexible plastic collection and set out details of the proposed communications activity leading up to the launch of the service.  Container delivery would take place ahead of the service go-live, with the standard provision being 55-litre plastic boxes (or suitable alternative sacks as needed).  Round design work had been completed, and four new service rounds were required to deliver the service.  Collections would be provided on a fortnightly cycle and scheduled to take place on the opposite week to green waste collections, which would minimise the number of waste receptacles presented at the kerbside on collection days.

Resolved –

            That the timeline for the implementation of kerbside glass collection as set out the report be approved.