Household side waste
Prior to 31 January 2023, we confirmed that we would no longer be collecting any side waste with your household refuse collections from that date. This includes bags or other waste left alongside your household waste bin.
This change was agreed at Cabinet in June 2022 and brings us in line with the other North East local authorities. It also means we can more effectively and efficiently deal with refuse collections, providing environmental benefits.
Here are some top tips to help you reduce your household waste and to avoid you having any side waste remaining:
- Recycle as much as you can - our blue recycling bin page give you a clear guide on what you can include in your blue bin, and recycling as much as possible will reduce household waste as well as being more eco-friendly
- Use the Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) at Pallion Industrial Estate, Sunderland and Campground, Wrekenton to dispose of recyclable materials, and any excess household general waste
- Request a larger blue bin - if you feel like you cannot manage your current amount of recycling, please contact our City and Neighbourhoods Team on 0191 520 5550 to discuss this. Prior to you receiving the larger bin, one of our Waste Assessment Officers will visit you to assess whether you are eligible to receive one
- Request a medical waste bin - if you are using your household waste bin for a large amount of medical waste, you can request a specific bin to use for this. Prior to you receiving the specific bin, one of our Waste Assessment Officers will visit you to assess whether you are eligible to receive one.
The vast majority of residents do not leave any side waste.
Below are some frequently asked questions that you may have about the change: