1)  That the work being undertaken to record all bins on a street cleansing asset register be noted; and

2)  That Option 2 be approved subject to the installation of the larger comingled bins where appropriate and required.

The Committee considered the report of the Head of Environment and Public Realm relating to a review of all litter and dog waste bins.

Members were advised that the review had identified that a large number of dog waste bins were no longer fit for purpose and to replace these bins would exceed the budget available.

Councillors Brice and Newton, attending as Visiting Members, addressed the Committee.

Councillor Brice expressed her concerns that should the dog bins be taken away and not replaced with a litter bin, this could mean that the dog owners could be searching for another bin to put the dog waste in.

In response the Head of Environment and Public Realm advised that there would be a consultation with Ward Members, Parish Councils and appropriate local community groups on the phased removal of the dog waste bins should Members accept option 1 within the recommendations. 

A phased operation would then be carried out to remove the dog waste bins and where possible a litter bin would replace a dog waste bin if there was not another litter bin within 400 metres.

Councillor Newton expressed his concerns over the poor state of the dog waste bins in Mallards Way and the fact that they were always overflowing.

In response the Head of Environment and Public Realm advised that there was only one operative who specifically emptied the dog waste bins around the borough but should the phased removal of these bins be approved then the service would be greatly enhanced as there are many more operatives who empty litter bins on a daily basis.

In response to Members questions, the Head of Environment and Public Realm advised that:-

·  If Parishes want to fund some dog waste bins, this would remain an option

·  There would be a high profile publicity campaign stating that dog waste could be put in normal litter bins

RESOLVED:

1)  That the work being undertaken to record all bins on a street cleansing asset register be noted; and

2)  That Option 2 be approved subject to the installation of the larger comingled bins where appropriate and required.

Voting:  For:  8  Against:  0  Abstentions:  0