Bedfordians are being invited to have their say on how Bedford Borough Council manages waste and recycling in the years ahead.
The council has launched a public consultation to help shape its new Resources Waste Strategy, which will determine how local waste and recycling services evolve to meet national requirements and support a more sustainable Borough.
Government changes to waste policy mean councils across England must align their services with new national objectives to increase recycling and reuse, reduce carbon emissions, and deliver best value for residents.
Without changing current waste habits, new treatment taxes could leave Bedford Borough Council facing an additional £1.6 million a year in waste treatment costs by 2030.
The council is responsible for all household waste and recycling collections, including garden waste, bulky waste, and clinical collections. It also operates the Household Waste Recycling Centre on Barkers Lane and manages several mini-recycling sites across the Borough.
Long-term approach
The new strategy will set out a long-term approach to ensuring these services remain effective, efficient, affordable and environmentally responsible.
Read: Public consultation now open on Bedford Borough Council’s budget proposals
The consultation is open online until 11.59pm on Sunday, 30 November 2025. Paper copies are also available from Bedford Central Library, the Bedford Borough Hub on Horne Lane, and Bedford Borough Hall on Cauldwell Street.
Printed responses must be returned by 5pm on Friday, 5 December.
To find out more or submit a response, visit bedford.gov.uk/consultations.
Cllr Nicola Gribble (Independent, Renhold & Ravensden), Portfolio Holder for Environment at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Managing waste responsibly is crucial for both our environment and our residents.
“This consultation is an opportunity for everyone in Bedford Borough to share their views on how we manage waste and recycling in the future.
“We want to make sure our services continue to protect the environment, reduce carbon emissions and provide the best value for money.”
