Reading Borough’s lack of kerbside glass recycling collections remains concerning

Residents in Reading continue to express their frustrations regarding the absence of kerbside glass recycling collections, unlike neighboring councils in the South such as Hampshire County Council, Wiltshire Council, and Somerset County Council. These councils have successfully implemented glass recycling collections, allowing residents to sort their glass into designated boxes or bags for convenient collection by bin crews.

The contrast is particularly striking along Overdown Road, which straddles the boundary between Reading Borough and West Berkshire Council. While the western half of the road, under West Berkshire Council’s jurisdiction, enjoys kerbside glass recycling collections that have been in place for over a decade, the eastern half falls within Reading Borough and does not benefit from the same service.

In response to the issue, a spokesperson for Reading Borough Council acknowledged that the council does plan to implement a kerbside glass recycling collection service once new legislation from the government is passed. The spokesperson explained that the council remains committed to preparing a service development program, but awaits the release of the Environment Bill’s secondary legislation. This secondary legislation is expected to provide crucial details regarding strategic matters like the scale and funding necessary for implementing a kerbside glass recycling service.

In the meantime, Reading Borough Council continues to offer recycling banks at strategic locations across the borough, allowing residents to recycle glass conveniently. Additionally, Re3, the waste management authority for Reading, Wokingham, and Bracknell Forest, has recently introduced mixed glass bottle banks, eliminating the need for segregating clear, brown, and green glass. This move provides more flexibility for residents when recycling glass.

The awaited secondary legislation related to the Environment Act, which came into effect in November 2021, is yet to provide comprehensive guidance on waste management policies. Specific details regarding the funding of kerbside glass collections in the future remain uncertain, contributing to the delay in implementation.

While residents in Reading continue to express their concerns, the council assures them of their commitment to establishing a kerbside glass recycling service once the necessary legislation and funding details are clarified.