Managed Collections

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is Tameside MBC changing the way household waste is collected?
• Is this scheme unique to Tameside?
• Doesn't Tameside MBC have to collect my waste every week?
• Is it healthy to use a managed collection service?
• Will I still be able to use the Recycling Sites?
• Will the changes affect my Council Tax?
• What happens at Christmas when I produce more waste?
• What if I can't fit all my recyclables into my recycling containers?
• What if I have difficulty moving my bin and recycling containers?
• What can I do to ensure that my black bin doesn't smell?
• Will this scheme lead to more fly tipping in the borough?
• What happens if I don't recycle?
• Isn't this just the council's way of trying to save money?

Why is Tameside MBC changing the way household waste is collected?

We have to change the way we collect your waste to meet tough government recycling targets and because we are running out of landfill space. We believe the most sustainable way to do this is by a Managed Waste Collection Service.

Is this scheme unique to Tameside?

This system has been in use in England and Wales for over three years. There are now over 100 councils collecting household waste in this way from nearly two and half million households. This figure is growing every week.

Doesn't Tameside MBC have to collect my waste every week?

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 does not specify weekly refuse collections but allows for local authorities to decide on the frequency required.

Is it healthy to use a managed collection service?

In the three years since the introduction of Managed Household Waste Collections there have been no instances of illness connected with this type of waste collection service. By using the containers provided as instructed and by ensuring the materials are rinsed before being placed into the recycling bins there will be no increased health risk from your waste.

Will I still be able to use the Recycling Sites?

As part of the improvements we are making, the recycling sites in Tameside will be maintained and in some areas enhanced to enable householders to continue to have the choice of how they recycle. Suggestions for the location of new recycling sites are always welcome.

Will the changes affect my Council Tax?

The cost of waste collection within your council tax is approximately 60p per week. Collection costs are likely to increase and managed collections are a way of controlling this. In addition waste disposal costs continue to increase year on year. Managed collections result in increased recycling and hence have some impact on controlling waste disposal costs.

What happens at Christmas when I produce more waste?

The majority of extra waste produced at Christmas can be recycled. Please use your recycling bins and recycling sites where possible. The Household Waste Recycling Centres are open from 8am to 6pm over the Christmas period except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

What if I can't fit all my recyclables into my recycling containers?

If you find that any of your recycling bins fill up too quickly and you would like a second bin then please contact the Call Centre on 0161 342 8355. Alternatively additional recyclables can be placed at the side of your recycling bin on collection day. Bring sites are also positioned throughout the borough for your use and material can be taken to the Household Waste Recycling Centres to be recycled. These are located at Bayley Street Stalybridge and Ash Road Droylsden.

What if I have difficulty moving my bin and recycling containers?

The council offer a Pull Out and Return service to residents who have difficulty moving bins. If you already receive assistance with your existing wheeled bins then this will continue. If you require further information about assisted collection please contact the Call Centre on 0161 342 8355.

What can I do to ensure that my black bin doesn't smell?

By following these simple guidelines you can ensure that any smells arising from your bin can be avoided.

1. Double wrap food waste before putting it into your bin. (Keep supermarket bags and packaging for this).
2. Uncooked vegetable and fruit waste can be composted in a home compost bin. Follow this link for further information on home composting or to order a compost bin.
3. Storing your bin out of direct sunlight can also help prevent smells during hot spells.
4. Keep the lid of your bin firmly closed. Having your bin washed regularly also helps. If you do not wish to do this yourself there are many reputable bin cleaning companies who will do this for you.

Will this scheme lead to more fly tipping in the borough?

Experience elsewhere suggests not. We will however monitor the position during the trial and remind people that fly tipping is a serious offence and can result in heavy fines or imprisonment for anyone convicted. If householders separate their recyclables and place these in the bins provided then there will be sufficient space in the black bin to have it emptied every other week.

What happens if I don't recycle?

The Council's Recycling Officers can provide free advice and help you manage your waste according to the new collection service. However, households are advised that persistent and deliberate non-compliance with the guidelines will result in prosecution. The government has created new legislation to ensure people comply with the law.

Isn't this just the council's way of trying to save money?

No. We have to reduce our waste and recycle as much as we can for environmental reasons as well as financial ones. The Council has introduced a number of recycling schemes such that it makes sense to use this kind of system. Overall the council will be paying more for the collection and disposal of waste in the future.

Contact Information
Send us a Message	Recycling Section Tameside MBC Council Offices Wellington Road Ashton under Lyne Lancs OL6 6DL View local map
0161 342 8355
0161 342 2266