New charges to replace refuse/recycling containers

New charges will come into force on 1 April to help cover the rising costs of replacing lost or stolen refuse and recycling containers across Darlington.

Darlington Borough Council issued more than 7,000 containers, including wheeled bins, caddies and recycling boxes last year. While many were supplied to new homes built in the borough, increasing numbers were issued to replace lost or stolen containers.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Cabinet Member for leisure and local environment, explained:

“With increasing pressure on the Council’s budget we, like many other authorities, have decided to introduce charges to cover the costs of replacing lost or stolen containers.

“Anyone moving into a newly built home will be provided with the containers they need free of charge, as will anyone who moves house if they find there are none at their new property – although residents should leave their bins at their old property.”

He added: “We would obviously advise tenants and householders to take care of their containers to reduce the chances of them being lost or stolen.

“Have the containers marked with your house number and/or postcode; don’t put them out too early and bring them back in as soon as possible after collection.”

Full details of the charges which come into force on 1 April 2016 can be found on the website at Refuse and Recycling FAQs or you can contact the Customer Services team.

There are no concessions for those on benefits. Tenants, whether in Council or privately rented properties, are responsible for replacement charges.

Darlington Borough Council retains ownership of the containers and only waste/recycling in containers supplied by the Council will be collected as other equipment may not be compatible with Council vehicles.

For more information or to order a replacement refuse or recycling container contact Customers Services on 01325 388777or email [email protected].