The proposed policy would provide a single framework for household waste collections, covering residual waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste and services such as garden waste and small electrical collections. 

The policy has been updated to reflect national legislation and changes to recycling requirements.  

If approved, the new policy would: 

• Extend the free garden waste collection season from 30 to 36 weeks, providing three additional fortnightly collections each year. 
• Introduce weekly food waste collections from 2027, using kitchen and kerbside caddies. 
• Introduce weekly kerbside collections for small electrical items, household batteries and disposable vapes alongside food waste collections from 2027. 
• Move to an alternating collection pattern from 2027, with residual waste and food waste collected one week, followed by dry mixed recycling and food waste the next. 

A public consultation carried out in November 2025 helped inform the proposed policy. Views on the preferred food waste collection approach were mixed, with 50 per cent of respondents preferring a mixed food and garden waste collection, while the other 50 per cent preferred separate food waste collections or were undecided. 

“ This policy aims to provide a clear framework for household waste collections across Walsall and ensure our services remain consistent, efficient and value for money.

“In the paper, we set out how we will introduce weekly food waste collections, extend the free garden waste collection season and provide more convenient recycling options for small electrical items and batteries.

“If approved, the policy will help us improve recycling, reduce waste, meet our legal responsibilities and continue delivering reliable waste services that residents can depend on. “

Councillor Ian Benton, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement

The policy would also clarify requirements for new housing developments to provide suitable waste storage and collection arrangements, and provide greater clarity on missed collections, service disruption, compliance and proportionate enforcement. 

If approved, extended garden waste season would begin in November 2026. Food waste containers and supporting information would be distributed during summer 2027. Weekly food waste and small electrical collections are expected to begin in late summer 2027, subject to procurement.  

The full Cabinet report and proposed Household Waste Collection Policy are available to view: https://cmispublic.walsall.gov.uk/cmis/Meetings.aspx(opens in new tab)