A MAJOR update has been issued on Herefordshire bin collections, after a "thorough and robust" procurement process.

A new recyclables and waste collection contract has been awarded to the county's current service provider FCC Environment to collect the county's bins.

The contract will start on September 1, 2024, for an initial term of eight years and can be extended by up to a further twelve years, Herefordshire Council said.

"This new contract represents continuity of service for residents, and the new arrangements also include a number of innovations, enhancements and inherent flexibility to respond to anticipated changes over the term of the contract," a council spokesperson said. 

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"Key to this will be the permanent deployment of two fully electric collection vehicles in the fleet primarily to serve Hereford city centre, which is a step towards the council and FCC’s net zero goals."

Rubbish and recycling collection days will remain the same for the vast majority, with households reminded to put rubbish and recycling out for collection at the boundary of their property closest to the public highway by 6.30am on collection day as collection time may change.

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Cabinet member for environment, Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, said the new service "will be key to helping us to minimise waste and increase reuse, repair and recycling".

"It will also provide a significant contribution to our investment in low-carbon projects, and strengthen our stewardship of Herefordshire’s natural resources," she said.

Coun Swinglehurst said FCC brings "a wealth of experience and knowledge of completing household and business waste collections across Herefordshire".

FCC Environment chief executive officer Steve Longdon said the business is delighted to continue working with Herefordshire Council.