Food waste collections - when will your council roll them out?
Councils clarify steps in food waste collection plans
North East councils are progressing with their plans for food waste collections amidst concerns from households about meeting government deadlines.
The rollout aims to reduce the volume of perishable items ending up in landfills.
79 councils in England, including those in Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, and Durham, may fall short of the original deadline to provide weekly food waste collections by March, based on findings from a BBC investigation.
The seven regional councils have outlined their current status and future plans regarding food waste collection. Many are opting for a phased approach to start or continue services, with Gateshead, South Tyneside, and Sunderland City councils benefiting from an extended deadline due to ongoing contracts.
North Tyneside
North Tyneside Council plans a phased introduction of food waste collections, starting late spring or early summer 2026.
A council spokesperson cited the need for new resources as a consideration for the roll-out method.
Northumberland
Northumberland has commenced early trials, covering over 5,000 homes.
A wider roll-out is planned for this summer, with intentions to expand if additional funding is received.
Durham
Durham County Council has shared the logistical challenges in preparing food waste collection services for around 250,000 homes.
James Gilchrist, head of environment, highlighted efforts such as sending leaflets to residents and providing kitchen caddies as part of the preparation.
Collections are expected to start in spring and summer 2026.
Newcastle
Newcastle City Council initially began food waste collections in September 2024 for over 5,200 homes, expanding to 500 more in January 2026.
The full roll-out depends on obtaining essential equipment currently in procurement, expected to launch later in 2026.
Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland
Councils here benefit from an extended deadline to 2039, enabled by a joint waste management arrangement.
A representative of the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership expressed satisfaction with the current system, which aligns with governmental objectives and avoids further environmental impacts.
They continue to promote waste reduction principles through local engagement initiatives.