Havering Council is set to review the frequency and effectiveness of litter bin emptying in Romford town centre following concerns raised by a local councillor.

Councillor Judith Holt questioned the current arrangements during a council meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. In response, Councillor Barry Muggleston, Cabinet Member for Environment and Deputy Mayor of Havering, explained that bins are emptied on a schedule determined by location and footfall. Operatives are present daily from 5 am to 7 pm, monitoring litter bins to ensure they are emptied frequently enough to prevent overflow.

While the frequency is adjusted based on specific locations and footfall, the exact variations for each area were not detailed in the meeting. [1]

Councillor Muggleston also stated that overflowing litter bins can be reported via the Haven website, with a commitment to address these reports within 24 hours of receipt. [2] Additional monitoring is in place, and the council is encouraging support for its Where We Live campaign, which aims to mobilise community groups to help keep the borough clean.

Councillor Holt suggested that data on bin emptying could be included in future performance packs, as detailed in the Public reports pack for the council meeting [3]. She also proposed that the matter could be referred to scrutiny for a review of contractor performance.

[1] In Romford Town Centre, there is a continued presence of operatives on site from 5am until 7pm, seven days a week, who monitor litter bins to ensure they are emptied as a frequency so they do not overflow. The frequency is determined by locations and footfall , but specific variations by location or footfall level are not detailed. (Source: Council Questions 18 March 2026.pdf) [2] The meeting states that Overflowing litter bins can also be reported via the Haven website. These reports are dealt within 24 hours of receipt. There is no information on whether this target has been met consistently. (Source: Council Questions 18 March 2026.pdf) [3] Councillor Holt suggested that data on bin emptying could be included in future performance packs. (Source: Public reports pack 18th-Mar-2026 19.30 Council.pdf)