The Lead Member for Highways, Transport and Windsor introduced the report that recommended the next step on the introduction of Big Bellied Bins, following the pilot scheme,  within the Royal Borough.

Cabinet were informed that the recommendations were built on the success of the original ‘pilot’ scheme and was recommending  that a Borough Wide ‘pilot’ scheme be introduced based on leasing of 5 ‘Big Belly Bins’ bins.

These bins were connected, solar powered waste bins with sensors that communicate real-time status enabling emptying schedules to be timed to occur when the bin is nearing capacity. In addition the bins include solar-powered  compacting technology which effectively increases the capacity of the bin.

Cabinet were informed that section 2.7 of the report showed the proposed locations for the extended trial period, the locations had been chosen due to the impact the technology would have on performance.  Although there would be additional costs this would be offset by efficiency savings allowing better use of resources. If the recommendations were accepted implementation would commence March 2019.

Cllr E Wilson attended the meeting and informed Cabinet that he was a bid advocate of the technology and had seen its success across the country. The trial in Windsor had been a success and not only did it save money but there was also a positive impact on anti-social behaviour and the positive impact on local businesses.  He commented that this was an excellent report and that members should focus on the 112,000 bin collections that were made each year.  There were instances of bins being collected when not full and in Windsor there were two bins five feet apart, the recommendations would be a way forward to improving the situation.  He welcomed further expansion of the scheme. 

The Leader of the Opposition asked what the criteria was for selecting the locations and when were savings expected to be realised. The reporting Lead Member explained that the locations were chosen on the frequency they were required to be emptied and the positive impact the new bins would have.  The new bins impact would be a reduction in the frequency of emptying bins, the reduction in anti-social behaviour associated with overflowing bins and a relocation of resource to further improve the local environment.

Resolved unanimously: that  Cabinet:

i) Approves the leasing of 5 ‘Big Belly’ bins which will be installed at locations across the Royal Borough.

ii) Approves the allocation of £5,000 in the 2019-20 capital programme and for four subsequent years to implement this initiative.