Binned – but not forgotten: Old burgundy bins to be recycled

As part of North Lincolnshire’s move to a simpler, smarter recycling service, the council will begin collecting and recycling thousands of existing burgundy bins early next year.

The materials will be processed by UK-based specialist recyclers, who turn used plastics into high-quality regrind pellets that are then used by British manufacturers to create new products.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Nothing is going to waste. As we roll out the new burgundy bins, the old containers will be responsibly recycled here in Britain, supporting UK industry and reducing our environmental footprint.”

The first wave of 70,000 brand-new British-made burgundy recycling bins will arrive in North Lincolnshire in January – a major milestone in delivering the area’s new, simpler recycling service ahead of the 2026 launch.

The new 240-litre bins – manufactured in the UK – will help introduce the new kerbside collection system, making it easier than ever for residents to recycle more and waste less.

Cllr Neil Poole, deputy leader, said “Residents can be confident their old bins will have a new life. It’s a smart, sustainable approach that keeps materials in use for longer and supports British businesses.

“We’re upgrading the system and making it easier for residents. Every old bin collected is turned back into useful raw material, helping manufacturers around the country and cutting waste at the same time.”

The recycled plastic pellets are used across a wide range of manufacturing sectors – from construction products to everyday household goods.

What residents will get under the new simpler recycling system:

• A single, larger 240L burgundy bin for all dry recycling: plastic, metal, glass, card and paper.
• A weekly garden and food waste collection in one bin – still free of charge.
• A fortnightly general waste collection for anything that cannot be recycled.

Residents who prefer to keep their current recycling container can opt out through a simple online form.

Deliveries of the new bins and collection of the existing ones for households will begin shortly after the council receives its first shipment in January.