In a significant move to boost recycling efforts and facilitate responsible waste disposal, households in England no longer have to pay for getting rid of small-scale DIY waste at council recycling centres. The government has taken the step to eliminate fees previously imposed by around one-third of local authorities for disposing of DIY waste at household waste recycling centres (HWRCs).
Starting from today, all councils in England will treat DIY waste the same as other household waste, provided it meets specific conditions, including not exceeding 2x 50L rubble bags.
This change is expected to result in substantial savings for households, with charges that could go up to £10 per item, such as a piece of plasterboard, now being scrapped.
These changes are part of a broader set of government reforms aimed at simplifying and improving recycling. Recent initiatives include a consultation launched last week to streamline the recycling of household electrical items and simplified household collection rules announced in October.
The adjustment to DIY waste disposal fees came into effect on 31 December 2023, following overwhelming public support during the consultation process, with 93% of householders in agreement with the proposed legislative changes.
Robbie Moore, the Recycling Minister, commented on the decision, stating, “We have delivered on our promise to make it easier and cheaper for people making home improvements to get rid of their waste properly. Removing charges for DIY waste at council recycling centres will help New Year home improvement projects become a reality and ensure that those disposing of waste responsibly aren’t being penalised for doing so.”
This step is part of the government’s broader commitment to combat waste crime and fly-tipping, which is estimated to cost the economy £924 million per year in England. Last year, the government announced grants totalling £775,000 to support councils in implementing various projects aimed at cracking down on fly-tipping, with an additional £1 million in grants available this year.
The government has also initiated consultations on reforming the waste carrier, broker, and dealer regime and on implementing mandatory digital waste tracking. Additionally, it is developing a fly-tipping toolkit in collaboration with the National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group to disseminate best practices for local authorities to combat this issue. The toolkit’s scope will be extended to raise awareness of waste duty of care among households and businesses.
Furthermore, the government has increased the maximum fines for fly-tipping, littering, and graffiti while ringfencing the proceeds from related fixed penalty notices to reinvest in enforcement and local cleanup activities. These measures collectively aim to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
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