Colchester City Council and Mersea Town Council are partnering to install four solar powered smart bins in West Mersea.
Each 120-litre bin will have a number of features that make them more efficient and effective at managing litter. A special compacting feature will allow them to hold over five times more rubbish than a standard bin, while a fill indicator will tell council operatives when they need emptying. The bins are equipped with 24/7 LED lighting, a personalised display that encourages people to dispose of their rubbish in the bin, and a foot pedal that allows users to open the bins without touching the cover.
This is one of several new approaches to tackling litter being extended across the city as part of the council’s commitment to making Colchester a cleaner, greener, and more pleasant place to live and visit.
Cllr Martin Goss, Colchester City Council Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Waste, said: “These smart bins are fantastic, and we are delighted to work with Mersea Town Council to invest in advanced technology that we really believe can make a difference for a cleaner Colchester.
“These compactor bins are similar to compactor bins already in place elsewhere in Mersea and have already proved to be a success. I hope it also makes individuals think twice about abandoning waste, so that we can all enjoy the benefits of living in a clean and tidy area.”
The new bins, along with several barbecue firepits, will be installed at the end of July along Victoria Esplanade and the seafront.
Residents can report issues with littering, fly-tipping, and graffiti on the council's website at www.colchester.gov.uk/street-cleaning.
Page last reviewed: 25 July 2023