Rubbish Changes Ahead: What Llantwit Fardre Residents Need to Know

As a resident of Llantwit Fardre, I understand that changes to waste collection can have a significant impact on our daily lives. That's why I wanted to share with you the recent decision by the Council's Cabinet to move to three-weekly black bag/wheelie bin collections and the impact it will have on local residents.

The proposal was made by Council officers to help the Council reach the 70% Welsh Government Recycling target. A public consultation was carried out, and the feedback received from residents was taken into account before the final decision was made.

Under the new proposal, ALL households across Rhondda Cynon Taf will move to a three-weekly black bag/wheelie bin collection. This will be supported by continuing the existing waste limits of 1 black bag per week per household (currently 2 per fortnight) and moving to 3 black bags or a closed wheelie bin every three weeks.

However, it's important to note that the collection of nappy waste, food waste, green waste (seasonal), and clear bag recycling will continue to be collected weekly, which should make up almost 80% of weekly household waste.

The Council cannot afford potential fines from Welsh Government if it doesn't reach the recycling target of 70% by 2024/25, and it must support Wales' efforts to become net-zero by 2030.

The agreed proposals will help the Council to continue delivering a full weekly recycling service alongside these changes, save vital funding of £800,000 in running costs, and significantly reduce its annual carbon footprint. Any savings achieved will be diverted to safeguard key services such as social care and education.

Almost a third of Councils in Wales already successfully operate three-weekly collections, with several councils in Wales consulting on similar changes. The new service will be fair to all recycling households, and for those who already recycle, these changes are unlikely to make a big difference to their household.

Changes to waste collection can be difficult, but it's important to remember that recycling is essential to protecting our environment, reducing our carbon footprint, and ensuring that we meet Welsh Government targets. We must all do our part to support this change and help the Council to reach the next target of 70% by 2024/25 and avoid substantial fines at an already difficult financial time.