West Oxfordshire backs bold new plan to improve bin collections and other waste services

The Oxfordshire Waste and Environmental Services Programme (WESP) is developing detailed proposals for local councils across Oxfordshire to come together to modernise and enhance services such as waste collection and disposal, recycling, street cleaning and grounds maintenance. 

The WESP programme involves West Oxfordshire District Council, Cherwell District Council, Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council.  

The new approach would be expected to save nearly £100 million across Oxfordshire over 10 years, with £17.3 million in benefits coming to West Oxfordshire. The Council will contribute £1.7 million to the programme over the ten-year period, making this a cost-effective way to secure better services and long-term improvements. 

The programme is designed to make everyday services simpler, more effective and greener, building on what has already been successfully delivered by our current provider. By introducing more consistent recycling services, using modern waste vehicles, and improving access to local recycling centres, we can make it easier for residents to do the right thing for the environment. At the same time, the programme supports wider goals to cut carbon emissions, reduce waste and protect nature, helping to keep Oxfordshire clean, healthy and resilient for the future. 

Key areas of work will include: 

• Making bin collections simpler and more consistent - In line with new national regulations, the programme will align collection methods across Oxfordshire. This will make recycling easier to understand and ensure a common approach countywide, reducing confusion and improving resident satisfaction. 

• Encouraging more reuse, repair and recycling - The Council will work with local communities and businesses to reduce waste, support repair and reuse schemes, and help more people recycle properly. This will help protect the environment and reduce the amount of rubbish being incinerated at Ardley or sent to landfill. 

• Improving local streets and green spaces - Building on the high standard of care already provided, the programme will explore new ways to enhance and maintain parks, verges and public open spaces, helping to keep towns and villages clean, tidy and welcoming for everyone.  

• Sharing resources like vehicles and depots to cut costs - By working together, councils across Oxfordshire will explore opportunities to share equipment and facilities. Helping operations run more smoothly and deliver greater value for money, 

• Reviewing paid-for and subscription services like bulky waste and garden waste to offer more value - Services such as garden waste and large item collections will be reviewed to ensure they remain efficient, consistent and great value for money for the people using them. Importantly, the income generated from these services will be reinvested to further improve and enhance the services residents can expect. 

Councillor Lidia Arciszewska, Executive Member for Environment at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We are stepping up to working with other local authorities in Oxfordshire. Waste and environmental services are some of the most visible and vital council functions. Residents expect services that are reliable, modern and sustainable, and this programme ensures we continue to keep pace with change while delivering the dependable, forward-looking services they rely on. We want services that are more user friendly, better for the environment and provide real value for public money. 

“With major changes expected in local government, we are not waiting to be shaped by events. We are choosing to shape them. By backing this programme now, we are securing a strong voice for West Oxfordshire, protecting the services our residents rely on and driving forward long-term improvements. 

“People want to know their council is planning ahead, protecting what matters and making smart choices with public money. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”