Residents across South Ribble will soon benefit from a new free weekly food waste recycling service, beginning the week commencing Monday 13 April 2026.
Starting in April 2026, changes to the law mean councils in England must collect food waste from all homes weekly.
The change is part of the government’s plan to improve recycling rates and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
New food waste containers arriving from February
To help households prepare, the council is delivering food waste starter packs between 16 February and 3 April 2026. Every household will receive:
- A 7‑litre kitchen caddy
- A 23‑litre outdoor food waste caddy with a secure, lockable lid
- Two rolls of kitchen caddy liners
- An information leaflet explaining how to use the service
Households are asked not to present their outdoor food waste caddies before 13 April, as collections will not begin until that week.
Once the service launches, food waste will be collected on the same day as residents’ usual bin collections.
Residents can check their bin collection day at: https://southribble.gov.uk/bincollectiondays
Councillor Kath Unsworth Cabinet Member for Environment and Streetscene said, “We’re pleased to be introducing weekly food waste collections for all households. This is an important step in improving recycling rates and supporting a cleaner, greener South Ribble.
“Food waste makes up a large part of what we throw away. When food waste ends up in general rubbish, it produces harmful greenhouse gases. By recycling it separately, we can turn it into useful resources, like renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser for farmland. This change will help make our borough cleaner, greener and more sustainable for everyone.”
Residents living in flats or properties with shared waste facilities will also be included in the new service. These households will receive a kitchen caddy and liners, and a communal outdoor food waste bin will be delivered and stored alongside existing shared bins.
Councillor Unsworth continued, “We encourage residents to look out for their starter packs and begin preparing for the new service ahead of April.
“As with any new service, it may take some time to get used to, so if you need any help or support you can read our information at www.southribble.gov.uk/foodwaste or contact us on 01772 625 625.”