This report sets out the kerbside glass recycling options for the Government’s Simpler Recycling initiative.

The Committee considered a report setting out proposals for the introduction of kerbside glass collections in Reading, in line with the Government’s Simpler Recycling initiative. The initiative required all local authorities in England to collect a consistent set of recyclable materials, including glass, from the kerbside by 31 March 2026.

The report outlined the current arrangements for glass recycling in Reading, which relied on 42 bring bank sites, and presented an options appraisal for future service delivery. It was noted that the Council’s existing Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) at Smallmead could not accommodate comingled glass without significant investment, which would not be cost-effective given the remaining term of the current contract with FCC Environmental.

Three options were considered:

·       Option 1a: Separate fortnightly glass collection using boxes or appropriate containers.

·       Option 1b: Separate four-weekly glass collection using wheeled bins.

·       Option 2: Comingled glass collection with Dry Mixed Recycling (DMR).

The Committee noted that Option 1a was the preferred approach due to its lower capital cost (£1.37m), medium revenue cost (£0.91m), and deliverability within the required timescale. It was also the most operationally feasible and aligned with national policy objectives, including reducing contamination and improving material quality.

The Committee also noted the need to commence vehicle procurement urgently due to long lead times (12–18 months), and that the vehicles could be repurposed for food waste collection if required.

In response to questions it was noted that there was not expected to be any penalties from central Government in relation to the timelines of the new service. The collections would be monitored so that the service would be as efficient as possible.  It was expected that future funding for the service would be more than sufficient to meet any additional costs.

Resolved –

(1)           That the discussion and agreement with re3 partners that, due to the current contract with FCC Environmental ending in 2031/32, the investment required to upgrade the Material Recycling Facility (£10.25m) would not be cost-effective, and therefore comingling of glass with DMR should not be actively pursued at this time be noted.

(2)           That Option 1a, as set out in the associated report, for the separate collection of glass from a box or other appropriate container on a fortnightly basis, be endorsed as the Council’s preferred option.

(3)           That the development of a detailed business case and delivery plan for Option 1a be approved, with a further decision report to be presented to the Committee in Autumn 2025 be approved.

(4)           That the Assistant Director of Environmental and Commercial Services be authorised to undertake a tender exercise including, in consultation with the Director of Finance, an award of contract of the required vehicles as set out in paragraph 10.2 of the associated report.

(5)            That the current long lead times for vehicle delivery that will impact on the detailed delivery plan be noted.