recycling
Councils are focusing on improving recycling rates and updating waste collection infrastructure, including new food waste services.
Hillingdon Council fixed barriers at Harefield Recycling Centre in September 2026 after technological issues caused congestion. Redbridge Council agreed in July 2026 to enhance efforts against fly-tipping using CCTV and public education. Richmond upon Thames' Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee approved the West London Waste Plan for public consultation in June 2026.
Redbridge residents will switch from a two-stream box system to wheeled bins for co-mingled recycling from 2028, a decision revealed in November 2025. Newham Council approved contracts in October 2025 for a weekly food waste collection service to all residential households by 2026, aiming to increase recycling rates. Kensington and Chelsea Council is also expanding its food waste collection service to all homes by March 2026, discussed in September 2025.
Camden Council is working to improve recycling rates on estates, which stood at 29.1% in November 2025 against a 35% target for 2025. Brent Council is implementing measures to address contamination and improve recycling rates, including new infrastructure and campaigns, discussed in July 2025. Bromley maintained its position as London's top borough for recycling for the third consecutive year in October 2025.
Key facts
- Hillingdon Council fixed barriers at Harefield Recycling Centre in September 2026. Source
- Redbridge Council agreed to combat fly-tipping with CCTV and public education in July 2026. Source
- Redbridge residents will switch to wheeled bins for co-mingled recycling from 2028. Source
- Newham Council approved contracts for weekly food waste collection by 2026 in October 2025. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council is expanding food waste collection to all homes by March 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.