The vehicles will be fitted with integrated pods that enable recycling to be collected alongside food and general waste, increasing the efficiency of council services.

Following cabinet members’ approval of the vehicle order, the local authority is now equipped to abide by the guidelines of the Government’s Simpler Recycling scheme, which requires all councils to implement weekly household food waste collections by April 2026.

To support the weekly services, the council also plans to introduce a Food Waste Engagement Officer who will be tasked with providing advice about minimising food waste, as well as helping households to operate food caddies and manage their weekly collection schedules.

In a recent statement, the council confirmed that the separation of food waste collections simultaneously ‘generates renewable energy’ and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Cllr Callum Butler, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services, said: ‘By investing in modern, integrated vehicles and supporting residents through the transition, we're ensuring we can deliver a high-quality, cost-effective service that meets legal requirements and supports our environmental goals.’

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