Every household in Southend set to get a free bulky waste collection

September 4, 2025

Southend residents are set to benefit from a bold new proposal for one free bulky waste collection per year (up to five items) which will be available for every household.

The proposal, which will be discussed at Place Scrutiny Committee today (Tuesday 2 September), would give every household one free bulky waste collection, with up to five items per year. Residents would still be able to book additional paid collections if needed.

The aim is to make it easier for people to dispose of large household items responsibly, reduce fly-tipping and support more re-use and recycling across the city.

Cllr Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said: “As a council, we promised to introduce a free bulky waste service, and I am pleased that we are now putting that proposal forward for discussion.

“We know how frustrating and costly it can be for residents to dispose of large household items. By giving every household one free collection a year, we can make it easier for people, cut down on fly-tipping, and support more recycling.

“If agreed, this will be a clear example of how this council is delivering on its commitments, building civic pride, and working to create a cleaner, greener Southend for everyone.”

To view the proposed report, visit: Agenda for Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday, 2nd September, 2025, 6.30 pm. If agreed by the Scrutiny Committee, the proposal will go to then Cabinet for a final decision later this September.

The proposed new model would cost an estimated £30,000 to £40,000 in 2025/26, potentially offset by reduced fly-tipping collection costs.

Any new service would be introduced as a first phase, running from October 2025 to March 2026, with reviews after three and six months.