In the news: More than 4,000 have their say in first week of waste consultation

Basildon Council has revealed that the waste consultation has already received 4,341 responses in its first week - more than the full consultation period in 2023 and a record for consultations launched by the council.

The consultation launched Monday 5 August to seek residents' views on the borough's current waste and recycling service, and possible future changes.

It's important we hear from as many people as possible to allow the results to better reflect the view of local communities - ensuring we can create a waste service that works for as many residents as possible.

We encourage all residents to have their say before the consultation ends on 29 September.

When it launched in January 2023, the previous consultation on non-recyclable waste collections received 4,137 responses in total.

Cllr Aidan McGurran, Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, said: "I had no doubt the resident response to this consultation would be incredible - but I am staggered by how many have submitted their surveys within the first week - and I am delighted.

"Our residents have made it clear they are deeply, deeply unhappy with the present waste collection system but it is very gratifying to see that this is already translating into levels of engagement we have never seen before.

"We witnessed the way our residents embraced the recently successful Crunch Month initiative, and are desperate for the waste collection system to be fixed. The Crunch was just the start of the process to clean up our estates and review the council's waste and recycling service. This consultation is the next major step - and I want it to smash all records for consultations to pieces.

"This is residents' opportunity to have their voices heard - on an issue we know they care passionately about. We are listening and we will act on what the consultation tells us. This is a completely genuine and transparent process.

"We need to hear from as many residents as possible. If you care about the waste collection service, tell us how it can work for you. I would like to thank the people of Basildon for getting involved. Let's keep it going - make sure your views are counted.

"We are going to fix the bins with your help so keep the responses coming!"

The consultation is available online at Have Your Say Today - Basildon Waste.

Residents can also complete the survey by visiting the main reception at the Basildon Centre. Alternatively, residents can call the council on 01268 533333 to complete a copy of the survey, where staff will be on-hand to provide support over the phone.

Waste Roadshows will also take place across the borough for residents to learn more about and complete the consultation. 

The consultation will run for a period of 8 weeks, closing on 29 September 2024.  

The consultation will inform the final proposals for waste collections, which will be presented to the Cabinet for approval later in the year.  

Find out more about the consultation and ways to have your say - Basildon Council Waste Consultation 2024

For regular updates on the waste and recycling service and other council news, sign up to receive the free weekly e-newsletter at www.basildon.gov.uk/keepintouch

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Published 13 August 2024