Further investigations on the future of Wokingham’s public bins have got under way following controversial plans to scrap some of them caused uproar earlier this year.
Wokingham Borough Council revealed plans earlier this year to get rid of some public litter bins, and to empty others less often, as part of cost-saving measures.
But an early move to cover some bins in July resulted in others overflowing, causing anger and confusion among residents.
The council then reversed the move and launched a public consultation on the changes – which showed strong opposition to the plans. Some 1,800 people also signed a petition against the move, which was handed to council leaders in September.
Councillors then recommended a “task and finish group” to look into alternatives.
They have now agreed on what the group should look at – including whether public litter bin provision could be “streamlined”.
Currently the borough council, town and parish councils and the council’s countryside department all provide bins.
The group will also look at whether companies can “sponsor” bins, and how they can take on fly tipping around bins.
Councillor Chris Johnson said the work could take up to a year, with the results likely not available until after local elections in May 2024.
