As part of DEFRA’s Simpler Recycling reforms, all local authorities in England will be legally required to provide recycling collections for the following materials by 1 April 2026:
- Paper and card
- Plastics
- Tins and cans
- Glass
- Food waste
This requirement applies to all residential properties, including flats and communal housing.
Current Status in Colchester
Colchester City Council (CCC) already provides dry recycling collections for most flats in the city. However, we will be working closely with property managers and landlords to ensure that all recycling streams are collected from all properties.
Currently, food waste is only collected from a limited number of flats. CCC is planning to expand food waste collections to all flats between November 2025 and March 2026.
Responsibilities for Landlords
Under the new legislation, landlords must ensure that their properties are equipped with appropriate recycling and food waste facilities. This may involve:
- Providing or upgrading storage areas
- Improving access to bin stores
- Ensuring the correct recycling bins are available
Next Steps
We are contacting management companies to inform them of these changes. CCC will also be surveying bin stores and advising property managers on the specific changes needed to ensure compliance.
Food Waste Collection Rollout
To support the rollout of food waste collections, CCC will provide:
- A communal food waste bin for each bin store
- An indoor food caddy for each flat
- Weekly collections
What to Do Now
If your building does not currently receive a separate food waste collection, advise residents to continue placing food waste in the general waste communal bin.
If you believe a property that you manage has been missed, contact us at:
simplerrecycling@colchester.gov.uk