Waste storage in new residential developments

New residential developments in the borough must include appropriate provision for the storage and collection of household waste and recycling.

Designers and developers should consider:

• Easy and safe access for waste producers, including older persons or persons with disabilities
• Easy and safe access for collectors and collection vehicles
• Location, space and type of containers
• Protection against animal scavenging of waste
• Aesthetics of the development
• Noise (e.g. glass handling)
• Ease of maintenance, including cleaning
• Safety from fire risk and smoke
• Lighting
• Ventilation
• Sound insulation
• Special requirements (e.g. separate storage & collection of bulk waste)

Guidance notes

It is essential for architects, planners, and developers to consult with us on suitable types of waste storage and collection arrangements at the initial planning stage. We have produced waste management guidance notes for residential developments for those concerned with such matters.

It is important that this document is not viewed in isolation and is referred to in conjunction with the British Standard BS5906:2005 (waste management in buildings). Further guidance can be taken from the code for sustainable homes which prescribes national standards aimed at reducing carbon emissions and creating homes that are more sustainable.

We also recommend that you refer to the recently released making space for waste - designing waste management in new developments, compiled and published by the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport (ADEPT).