Edinburgh South.
Edinburgh South.

I’m pleased to share some recent changes to the placement framework for bin hubs, which have caused many issues in our area. 

This week, the Transport and Environment Committee, led by Labour Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, implemented several changes aimed at addressing longstanding concerns about the placement of bin hubs and improving satisfaction with the city’s waste management system.

This follows feedback from residents which I have been passing on to the Council.

These changes are varied, and upon request, I will provide a copy of the full revised location criteria (please email me if you would like a copy). In summary:

  • Bin hubs may now be located across the street from residents’ homes, provided the road is no wider than 10.5 metres (except cul-de-sacs), is within a 20mph zone, and offers a safe and accessible space for using the bins.

 

  • The maximum distance residents may need to walk to access a bin hub will increase.

 

  • Bin hubs now may be located less than 10 metres away from junctions where a safe site is available.

 

  • Resident amenity will now be considered as the most important factor when deciding placement, with hubs being sited in locations which minimise any negative impacts on resident amenity, meaning specifically the impacts of noise and odours and the impacts on privacy and outlook.

These changes mean fewer bin hubs will be placed directly in front of people’s homes when alternative locations, such as blank walls or green spaces, are available – which has caused so much frustration in Edinburgh South.

Initial assessments have already identified 18 hubs that could be improved under the new criteria, including 12 that may be removed entirely.

These changes will both be applied to new hubs and to existing ones when a review is requested.

Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, explaining the rationale for his changes, said:

“If we can increase the flexibility and allow officers a bit more freedom to place bin hubs where the community would like them, then I think we’re probably on the right track. 

“I think it’s also important that we listen, that we don’t just make a decision as a council and carry on and deliver the project without testing it with the people out there, and potentially changing it if we feel it’s not quite working.”

This reflects the concerns residents have raised with me throughout this process.

While bin hubs remain a part of Edinburgh’s waste management strategy, these changes aim to strike a better balance between functionality and resident amenity.

Thank you once again to everyone who has contacted me with their concerns on this very important issue. Your views have been instrumental in the implementation of these changes.

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