Issue details

Future of kerbside recycling collections under Simpler Recycling

Statutory obligations have been placed on English LA’s under the Environment Act 2021 to collect a more consistent range of household waste materials for recycling, in accordance with the Government’s National Resources and Waste Strategy Consistency requirements.?

From 31st March 2026, the council will have a legal duty to ensure dry recyclable materials and food waste are collected separately from household residual waste. This will include a separate collection of additional: Plastic pots, tubs and trays, glass bottles and jars, tetra packs and flexible plastics;

Management of this increased range of materials will require a major capital investment/rebuild of our existing MRF at West Sleekburn. This paper provides cabinet with a detailed look at several collection/processing option and requests a decision based on this information for the way forward.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Expenditure > £500,000 and Affects more than 1 ward;

Decision status: For Determination

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Notice of proposed decision first published: 07/04/2025

Decision due: 10 Jun 2025 by Cabinet

Lead member: Cabinet Member for Looking After our Environment

Lead director: Executive Director - Place and Regeneration

Contact: David Groves, Commercial and Contracts Manager Email: david.groves@northumberland.gov.uk.

Documents

  • Future of kerbside recycling collections under Simpler Recycling