Southend-on-Sea City Council would like to update residents on the wheelie bin assessment process.
SUEZ is conducting an audit to verify which households are eligible for the upcoming rollout of wheelie bins as part of improvements to waste collection services.
This audit will confirm properties best suited for wheelie bins based on space availability, accessibility, and collection logistics. Residents may notice SUEZ representatives accessing properties over the coming months. No action is required from residents at this stage.
Residents will be informed of the outcome prior to the start of the enhanced service and will have the chance to raise any concerns.
All households deemed suitable for wheelie bins, will receive up to three standard-size wheelie bins holding 180 litres. Additionally, larger 240-litre bins can be requested for larger households (six or more residents) or those with medical and hygiene waste. Delivery of the wheelie bins will start from August 2025, but should not be used until the new waste system starts on 27 October 2025.
Using wheelie bins will increase recycling levels and improve the quality of recycling by separating paper and card. They also benefit the environment by preventing animal scavenging and helping to keep streets clean.
Cllr Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said: "Switching to wheelie bins for our waste is a big change for residents, and our focus is to make sure that we make the new system work for all. That's why we're taking the time to visit every home and putting in a process for residents to raise their specific concerns.
"I'm pleased to say that unlike many other councils, we're not allowing bins to be stored on our pavements. This prevents obstacles on our footpaths and maintains our street scene. So, part of our survey is carefully assessing where the bins will be collected and returned to on collection day.
"Residents should also find that the switch to bins significantly reduces street litter from animals breaking open the bags. We encourage residents to use their food recycling service to further reduce this happening, which will remain weekly under the new service.
"We are enhancing our assisted collection service for those with mobility issues, where bins will be connected and returned to the storage point on a property. We are also using a special design on the bin lids to aid those with visual impairments."
For more information visit our recycling and waste FAQ page.