Underground bin collection issues

Unfortunately, we are not able to collect waste from our underground bins.

We are working to fix this issue.

In the mean time, we will have dedicated waste crews clear the top plates of these bins in the morning and afternoon.

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Battery safety

Lithium-ion batteries power everyday items such as:

  • phones
  • laptops
  • vapes
  • toys
  • power tool packs
  • e-bikes and more

If they are put in household bins, they can be crushed and create fires inside bin lorries.

Take all batteries and battery containing electricals to a safe drop off. Never put batteries in your rubbish or recycling.

How to get rid of batteries and electricals safely

Reuse and Recycling Centre

Our Reuse and Recycling Centre accepts all batteries.

Bring items in a plastic box. Keep damaged batteries separate.

Supermarkets and electrical retailers

Most supermarkets and electrical retailers offer free battery drop off bins (usually by tills or customer services).

Recycle small electricals where available. If the battery cannot be removed, recycle the whole device.

Idea stores

Idea Stores do not accept batteries due to fire safety concerns.

If a battery is damaged, swollen or overheating

  • Do not put it in your pocket, bag or household bin
  • Place it in a non-flammable container (metal box/bucket with dry sand) and store outside
  • Take it directly to the Reuse and Recycling Centre

If a battery is on fire

  1. Get out. Stay out. Call 999
  2. Do not touch it or pour anything on it
  3. Close doors behind you to slow smoke spread

Charge and buy safely

  • Use the correct charger
  • Avoid overnight charging and keep escape routes clear
  • Buy from reputable UK sellers with UKCA/CE marking
  • Unplug when fully charged
  • Do not charge while sleeping

Why battery safety matters

Our bin lorries have experienced fires linked to discarded batteries. Nationally, bin lorry and waste site fires caused by batteries have risen. These incidents:

  • are dangerous for crews and the public
  • cause serious vehicle damage
  • disrupt services

How bin lorry fires start

  1. A battery (often from a vape, phone, toy, power tool, e bike or e scooter) is thrown in a household bin.
  2. Inside the bin lorry, the compactor crushes or punctures the battery, causing a short circuit.
  3. The cell enters thermal runaway rapidly heating and releasing flammable gases.
  4. Fire spreads through the load, producing toxic smoke and explosions.