Purpose

To deliver a district-wide rollout of red reusable lidded recycling bags for plastics and cans to approximately 85,000 households across Bath & North East Somerset, replacing the existing green box and lid system for this material stream. The proposal follows a successful trial involving approximately 500 households which demonstrated improved recycling quality, reduced contamination, lower levels of litter, clearer recycling presentation for residents and lower container replacement costs. The rollout to all homes will support cleaner streets, improve recycling performance, increase operational efficiency, and provide a more cost-effective recycling container solution for the Council.

Decision

To approve £235,000 of capital expenditure, funded through Service Supported Borrowing, to enable the district-wide rollout of red reusable recycling bags for plastics and cans during 2026/27. The investment will fund the purchase, communication, and distribution of approximately 85,000 bags and is expected to deliver ongoing operational and financial benefits, including reduced container replacement costs and improved quality of recyclable materials. The proposal represents the preferred option following the recycling container trial and will allow the Council to realise the benefits of the service change at the earliest opportunity.

Alternative options considered

Option 1: Continue using the existing green lidded box for cans and plastics. This option was not considered viable as it delivers no additional benefits.
Option 2: Replace containers on a request-only basis and providing a bag for cans and plastics recycling instead of a box. Based on current annual replacement rates, it would take approximately 10 years to achieve full district-wide implementation of the red bags. While this is a cost-effective option, it would be impractical for collection crews due to inconsistent bag coverage and could be confusing for residents.
Option 3: Roll out the red recycling bags over two financial years (26/27 and 27/28) in line with the wider collection fleet replacement plan. Although this is a more economical approach, it would delay the full benefits of improved material quality for resale and increased recycling capture rates.