From late 2025, households across Southend-on-Sea will see important changes to how recycling and waste are collected. The new system aims to make it easier to recycle, cut down on landfill waste, and lower the city’s environmental impact—all while saving money.
What’s Changing?
Starting 28 October 2025, Southend-on-Sea City Council will introduce a new waste and recycling system, supported by a newly appointed contractor. This will include:
- Weekly food waste collections (no change here)
- Alternate weekly collections for general (non-recyclable) waste
- A new bin system replacing most black sacks with wheeled bins
The New Bin System
Most homes will receive up to three wheeled bins before the new service begins:
- 🗑️ Black lid – General waste (non-recyclables)
- ♻️ Pink lid – Mixed recyclables (plastics, glass, cans)
- 📦 Blue lid – Paper and cardboard only
Letters will be sent to every household with specific collection details and which bins apply to them. The council has confirmed that properties unsuitable for wheelie bins will be reviewed individually, with criteria agreed by the cabinet in January 2024.
Why Are These Changes Being Made?
Southend currently recycles around 43.5% of its household waste—well short of the 65% national target by 2035. Without action, this rate is likely to fall, and keeping the current service would cost an extra £10 million over the next 8 years.
With a projected £32.9 million budget shortfall over the next four years, maintaining the status quo isn’t an option. The new system is designed to cut costs and encourage better recycling habits city-wide.
Collection Schedule
The new schedule will follow a fortnightly rotation for most bins, such as:
- Week 1: Blue bin (paper/card) + Black bin (non-recyclables)
- Week 2: Pink bin (plastics/glass/cans)
Or:
- Week 1: Blue bin only
- Week 2: Pink bin + Black bin
Your exact days may change—letters will be sent in advance of any alterations.
Food & Garden Waste
- Food waste collections remain unchanged and will continue weekly using your current caddy.
- Garden waste remains an optional paid service and will continue as before, with no changes to the subscription process or collection frequency.
Flats, HMOs & Assisted Collections
- Flats with communal bins will continue with their current service.
- Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) will be considered during the rollout to ensure suitable arrangements.
- Assisted collections will still be available for eligible residents who need support.
Bin Sizes
- Standard bins will be 180 litres, holding around 3–4 full bin bags.
- Larger 240-litre bins can be requested for households with six or more people or those with specific medical needs.
Bulky Waste & HWRC Access
Residents can continue to use the council’s bulky waste collection service or take large items to the Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC) at Leigh Marshes or Stock Road.
When Will Bins Arrive?
Bin deliveries begin in August 2025. Households must not use the new bins until the official start date of 28 October 2025. Until then, collections will continue as normal.