The cost of kerbside garden waste collection varies dramatically by location, according to research by waste firm Divert. East Hampshire charges £130 a year and Kingston upon Thames £104. Waverley Council in Surrey was listed as the most expensive at £136.70, though the council disputes this figure, stating its standard annual charge is £87.60 — with the higher cost applying only in years when a new bin must be purchased.
46 councils offer some form of free garden waste collection, among them Hull and Doncaster, the latter's free service covering a single bin. Bury Borough Council had the lowest flat annual charge in England at £17.50. Some councils charge per bag rather than levying an annual fee, an arrangement that may suit households with smaller gardens.
Residents unsure of their council's charges, or whether a subscription is required, should check directly with their local authority before putting their green bin out. Home composting and trips to a local recycling centre remain free options for smaller volumes of garden waste.
Source: The Express