Bedford Borough collects 170 tonnes of food waste in first two weeks

A hand holding a mobile phone with the Bedford Borough Council's bin reporting page visible. Wheelie bins are in the background Image Bedford Borough Council
A hand holding a mobile phone with the Bedford Borough Council's bin reporting page visible. Wheelie bins are in the background. Image: Bedford Borough Council

Bedford Borough residents are being encouraged to report bin collection issues online as the council says the new food waste service has got off to a strong start.

More than 170 tonnes of food waste have been collected in the first two weeks of the scheme, according to Bedford Borough Council.

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Early uptake

The council said the amount collected is equivalent to around 115 family-sized cars.

Cllr Nicola Gribble (Independent, Renhold and Ravensden), portfolio holder for environment, said the response from residents had been positive.

“It’s fantastic to see residents embracing the new food waste service,” she said, “We’ve had some early challenges, but by working together and listening to feedback, we’ve been able to resolve most issues quickly.”

Bedfordians are being asked to report missed collections and other problems online, rather than by phone.

The council said this allows issues to be sent directly to the relevant team and provides a reference number for follow-up.

Missed collections should be reported within two working days.

Householders can also use the online system to request replacement bins or report bins that have not yet been delivered.

Collection times

The council said different types of waste are collected by separate vehicles, meaning bins may be emptied at different times between 6am and 5pm on collection day.

Residents can check their collection days or report issues by entering their postcode on the council’s website.

The council said its website includes translation and audio tools to help residents access information.

Customer Services remains available by calling 01234 267422 for those who are unable to report issues online.

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