Hillingdon Council Cabinet Member and Officer Decisions
Rationalisation of Dog Waste Containers
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Democratic Services Location: Phase II DDI: 01895 250692 CMD No: 2026/1819 To: COUNCILLOR WAYNE BRIDGES CABINET MEMBER FOR RESIDENTS SERVICES c.c. All Members of th e Residents' Services Select Committee c.c. Dan Kennedy , Corporate Director of Residents Services c.c. Jordan Groves, Residents Services Date: 14 October 2026 Non-Key Decision request Form D Rationalisation of Dog Waste Containers Dear Cabinet Members, Attached is a report requesting that a decision be made by you as an individual Cabinet Member. Democratic Services confirm that this is not a key decision, as such, the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 notice period does not apply. You should take a decision on or after Thursday 22 October 2026 in order to meet Constitutional requirements about publication of decisions that are to be made. You may wish to discuss the report with the Corporate Director before it is made. Please indicate your decision on the duplicate memo supplied and return it to me when you have made your decision. I will then arrange for the formal notice of decision to be published. Ryan Dell Democratic Services Title of Report: Rationalisation of Dog Waste Containers Decision made: Reasons for your decision: (e.g. as stated in report) Alternatives considered and rejected: (e.g. as stated in report) Signed ……………………………………………………… Date…………………….. Cabinet Member for Residents Services Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 1 Rationalisation of Dog Waste Containers Cabinet Member Lead Cabinet Member for Residents Services (Cllr Bridges) Consulting Cabinet Members Chief Officer responsible Corporate Director of Residents Services Report author Jordan Groves, Head of Waste & Green Spaces Report classification and reason Public Relevant Committee Residents' Services Electoral Ward All Wards 1. Executive Summary This report seeks approval to remove all standalone dog waste bins across the Borough and integrate dog waste disposal into the Council's existing litter bin network and household residual waste collection arrangements. The proposal follows a comprehensive review undertaken by the Street Scene and Green Spaces teams, which assessed the operational effectiveness, distribution and ongoing costs associated with approximately 700 dedicated dog waste bins currently located throughout the Borough. The review identified that many dog waste bins are located in close proximity to standard litter bins or in areas where alternative disposal options are already readily available. Dog waste can legally and safely be disposed of in either standard litter bins or household residual waste collections, meaning that a separate dedicated collection infrastructure is no longer considered necessary. The current arrangement has developed incrementally over many years and now incurs an annual servicing cost of approximately £160,000. Three options were considered as part of the review: retaining the existing arrangement, partially reducing the number of dog waste bins, or removing all standalone dog waste bins. Following evaluation of the financial, operational and service implications of each option, the preferred approach is the full removal of standalone dog waste bins and the transfer of disposal activity to the existing litter bin network. This option delivers the greatest operational simplification and financial benefit whilst maintaining accessible disposal facilities for residents and dog owners. The service currently collects approximately 14.5 tonnes of dog waste each month, equivalent to around 174 tonnes annually. Whilst this waste would transfer into the wider litter and residual waste streams, the Council's existing infrastructure is considered capable of accommodating this change. As a result of this operational saving, it is proposed that £60,000 per annum of the savings generated is reinvested into Street Cleansing operations. This funding will provide additional capacity for litter bin servicing in parks, open spaces and other locations where increased demand may occur. Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 2 The proposal is expected to generate gross annual savings of approximately £160,000 and deliver a recurring net saving of approximately £100 ,000 per annum following reinvestment. In addition to the financial benefits, the proposal will simplify service delivery, reduce duplication within the Council's waste collection infrastructure and align the Borough's approach with practices already adopted by many local authorities. Implementation will be supported through a phased programme of bin removal, targeted communications and ongoing operational monitoring. Residents will be informed that dog waste may continue to be disposed of responsibly through any litter bin or household residual waste collection, ensuring that convenient disposal options remain available across the Borough. The decision sought is approval to remove all standalone dog waste bins across the Borough, approve the reinvestment of £60,000 per annum into Street Cleansing services , noting that disposal charges will be absorbed into the existing budget. The anticipated net annual saving of approximately £100,000 per annum together with the operational efficiencies will be achieved through a simpler and more cost-effective waste management approach. 2. Recommendations That: 1) The findings of the review of standalone dog waste bin provision across the Borough be noted; 2) The removal of all standalone dog waste bins across the Borough and the integration of dog waste disposal into the existing litter bin network and household residual waste disposal arrangements be approved; 3) The reinvestment of £60,000 per annum into Street Cleansing services to increase litter bin servicing requirements and associated waste disposal costs, where appropriate, arising from the implementation of this proposal be approved; 4) The anticipated gross annual saving of approximately £160,000 and the estimated recurring net annual saving of approximately £ 100,000 following reinvestment be noted; 5) The Corporate Director of Residents Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, be authorised to implement the approved changes, including the phased removal of dog waste bins, the delivery of the associated communications pr ogramme and any necessary operational Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 3 adjustments arising from ongoing monitoring and review of the service following implementation. 3. Reasons for decision The recommendations are proposed to improve operational efficiency, reduce ongoing service costs and make better use of the Council's existing waste disposal infrastructure whilst maintaining convenient disposal arrangements for residents and dog owners. The review of the current provision identified that many standalone dog waste bins are located close to litter bins or other alternative disposal routes, resulting in unnecessary duplication within the waste collection network. Dog waste can legally and safely be disposed of through standard litter bins and household residual waste collections, removing the operational need for a dedicated dog waste bin service. Approval of the removal of standalone dog waste bins will simplify service delivery, reduce operational complexity and align the Borough's approach with established practices adopted by many other local authorities. The proposal delivers the greatest operational and financial benefits of the options considered whilst ensuring that residents continue to have access to appropriate waste disposal facilities. The proposed reinvestment of £60,000 per annum into Street Cleansing services will provide additional resilience within the service, enabling the Council to respond to any increase in litter bin usage, support enhanced servicing where required and manage any additional waste disposal costs associated with the transfer of dog waste into the wider waste stream. Noting the anticipated gross annual saving of approximately £160,000 and the estimated net recurring saving of approximately £100,000 will ensure that the financial benefits of the proposal are recognised and support the Council's objective of delivering efficient, value- for-money services. The Cabinet Member is authorised to agree such service alterations. Delegated authority is sought to enable the efficient implementation of the approved changes, including the phased removal of infrastructure, delivery of resident communications and the management of any operational adjustments identified through post-implementation monitoring and review. 4. Proposal 1. Background The Council currently maintains approximately 700 standalone dog waste bins across the Borough, which are serviced through a dedicated collection arrangement at an annual cost of approximately £160,000. Over time, the network has developed incrementally in response to local Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 4 requests and historic service arrangements rather than through a strategic assessment of operational need, resulting in an inconsistent distribution of bins across the Borough. A review undertaken by Street Scene and Green Spaces has identified that many dog waste bins are located within close proximity to standard litter bins or in locations where residents have access to alternative disposal routes through household residual waste collections. As a consequence, the existing network contains a significant level of duplication and does not represent the most efficient use of Council resources. 2. Current Position Dog waste can be safely and legally disposed of through standard litter bins or household residual waste collections. Dedicated dog waste bins are therefore not a statutory requirement and are no longer considered essential to the effective management of dog waste across the Borough. The Council currently collects approximately 14.5 tonnes of dog waste each month, equating to around 174 tonnes annually. Whilst this represents a significant volume of waste, there is no operational requirement for it to be collected separately from other litter or residual waste streams. The Council already maintains an extensive litter bin network across parks, open spaces, town centres and residential areas, providing widespread accessibility for residents wishing to dispose of dog waste responsibly. 3. Options Considered Three options have been considered as part of this review: Option 1: Retain the Existing Dog Waste Bin Network This option would maintain the current provision of approximately 700 standalone dog waste bins and continue the associated annual servicing costs. Whilst this would result in no change for residents, it would not deliver any financial savings or operational improvements. Option 2: Rationalise and Reduce Dog Waste Bin Provision This option would remove selected bins where duplication exists and retain dedicated provision in strategic locations. Whilst this approach would provide some financial benefit, it would still require a dedicated collection service and continue the complex ity of operating two separate disposal systems. Option 3: Remove All Standalone Dog Waste Bins (Preferred Option) Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 5 This option would remove all standalone dog waste bins and direct residents to use existing litter bins or household residual waste collections. This would simplify waste management operations, remove duplication within the network and deliver the greatest financial benefit whilst maintaining alternative disposal options. 4. Preferred Option and Rationale Following assessment of the available options, the preferred option is the removal of all standalone dog waste bins across the Borough. The review findings demonstrate that the majority of dog waste bins are located in areas where suitable alternative disposal facilities already exist. The continued operation of a dedicated collection service therefore represents an avoidable cost when the same outcome can be achieved through the existing waste infrastructure. The proposed approach will simplify service delivery, reduce operational complexity and ensure Council resources are focused on frontline environmental services that provide the greatest benefit to residents. In addition, the proposal aligns with practices adopted by many local authorities that have successfully removed dedicated dog waste bins and incorporated dog waste disposal within their standard litter management arrangements. 5. Financial Considerations The proposal is expected to generate gross recurring savings of approximately £160,000 per annum through the cessation of the dedicated dog waste collection service. It is proposed that £60,000 per annum is reinvested into Street Cleansing services to provide additional capacity for litter bin servicing, street cleansing and support operational monitoring. Consideration has also been given to the disposal costs which are to be absorbed into the existing disposal budget. Following this reinvestment, the Council is expected to realise a net recurring saving of approximately £100,000 per annum. The proposal therefore delivers a sustainable financial benefit whilst maintaining service standards and providing sufficient operational resilience during and following implementation. 6. Operational Impact The removal of dedicated dog waste bins will result in greater use of the existing litter bin network, particularly within parks, open spaces and other popular dog walking locations. Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 6 The Council's existing litter infrastructure is considered capable of accommodating this additional demand. However, usage patterns will be monitored closely following implementation, with servicing frequencies adjusted where necessary to maintain cleanliness standards. The proposed reinvestment into Street Cleansing services will provide flexibility to respond quickly to any emerging operational pressures. 7. Risks and Mitigation The principal risks associated with the proposal include potential public concern regarding the removal of dedicated bins, increased use of litter bins and the possibility of an increase in dog fouling if residents are unaware of alternative disposal arrangements. These risks can be effectively managed through a phased implementation programme, clear communications, updated signage where appropriate, continued enforcement activity and ongoing monitoring of operational performance. The proposed reinvestment into frontline cleansing services will further mitigate the risk of service impacts by ensuring sufficient resources are available to manage any increase in demand. 8. Communications and Resident Engagement A comprehensive communications plan will be developed and implemented in advance of the proposed removal of standalone dog waste bins to ensure residents are fully informed of the changes and the alternative disposal arrangements available. The communications campaign will clearly explain that dog waste can continue to be disposed of responsibly using any litter bin across the Borough or through household residual waste collections. Messaging will emphasise that the proposal does not remove disposal opportunities for dog owners but instead simplifies the disposal network by making use of existing infrastructure. As part of the implementation programme, the Council will provide adequate advance notice through the use of temporary signage and stickers on litter bins. Stickers will be installed on selected litter bins, particularly in parks, open spaces and other popular dog walking locations, to reinforce the message that these bins can accept dog waste. A simple and positive message such as "I can take dog waste too" will be used to increase awareness and encourage responsible disposal behaviour. The communications campaign will utilise the Council's website, social media channels, ward member briefings, onsite signage and other appropriate communication channels to raise resident awareness. Messaging will also promote responsible dog ownership, explain the rationale for the Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 7 changes and highlight how the savings generated will be reinvested into frontline environmental services. The combination of advance notice, clear signage, targeted communications and ongoing engagement will support a smooth transition, minimise resident confusion and help maintain high standards of environmental cleanliness across the Borough. Following implementation, resident feedback, service requests, complaints, Member enquiries and operational monitoring, data will be reviewed regularly to identify any emerging issues or hotspot locations. This will include monitoring reports of overflowing litter bins, dog fouling, cleanliness concerns and any areas where residents may require further information about the new disposal arrangements. Where issues are identified, the Council will take appropriate action, including providing additional targeted communications or signage, and reviewing local operational arrangements. 9. Officer Recommendation Having considered the operational, financial and service implications, officers conclude that the removal of standalone dog waste bins represents the most effective and efficient option available to the Council. The proposal provides significant recurring financial savings, simplifies waste management arrangements, removes duplication within the existing infrastructure and retains accessible disposal routes for residents. The associated risks are considered manage able and can be mitigated through targeted reinvestment, communications and ongoing service monitoring. For these reasons, approval is recommended for the removal of all standalone dog waste bins across the Borough and the implementation of the associated operational and communications measures detailed within this report. 5. Corporate implications Financial (mandatory) Y Equalities impact assessment Legal (mandatory) Y Workforce Alternative options (mandatory) Y Public Health Risk management (mandatory) Y External partners Asset Communications Procurement Y Committee comments Social Value (from contract) Digital Planning Heathrow Climate Change Other Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 8 a) Financial The removal of standalone dog waste bins, together with the termination of the contract with Charman Environmental Services Ltd., is projected to generate net annual savings of approximately £ 100,000. This includes £160,000 in savings from ceasing the dedicated dog waste collection service, with £60,000 per annum of this being proposed for reinvestment in Street Cleansing services to increase operational capacity and support. The costs of implementing this proposal, including the removal of dog waste bins and associated communications, are anticipated to be minor and can be absorbed within the overall waste disposal budget. The associated costs, reinvestment and savings achieved from the proposal set out in the main body of the report will be monitored through the established monthly monitoring cycle and assessed as part of the wider MTFS. b) Legal Under Section 45 of the Environmental Protect Act 1990 (“the Act”), the Council as a waste collection authority, has a duty to arrange for the collection of household waste. Under section 89 of the Act, the Council also has a duty to keep land and highways clear of litter and refuse. There is no legal obligation on the Council to provide dog waste containers; furthermore, the Council’s PSPO makes it an offence for owners to allow their dogs to foul in public areas and not to clean up after them. The report and recommendations presented have been considered by legal services for any legal implications relating to the Council's duties and there are no issues which legal services consider need to be brought to the specific attention of Members . c) Alternative options Alternative Options Rationale for rejecting option Option A – Retain Existing Dog Waste Bin Network This option would retain approximately 700 standalone dog waste bins and the associated annual servicing cost of approximately £160,000. Whilst there would be no change for residents, the option would not deliver any financial savings, operational efficien cies or service improvements and would continue to support a network that has Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 9 developed without a strategic approach to location, demand or value for money. Option B – Rationalise and Reduce Dog Waste Bin Provision This option would remove a proportion of dog waste bins whilst retaining dedicated provision in selected locations. Although some savings would be achieved, a dedicated collection service would still be required and a dual waste disposal system would remai n in place. This option would only partially address the inefficiencies identified through the review and would deliver significantly lower financial and operational benefits than the preferred option. Do nothing Retaining the current arrangements would result in the continued expenditure of approximately £160,000 per annum on servicing standalone dog waste bins. The Council would forgo the opportunity to generate recurring savings, simplify service delivery and make better use of the existing litter bin network. This option does not represent the most efficient use of public resources. Cease activity This option would involve removing the dog waste bin network without providing an alternative disposal route. It was rejected because residents must continue to have access to suitable and convenient facilities for the responsible disposal of dog waste. The preferred option ensures disposal opportunities remain available through the existing litter bin network and household residual waste collections across the Borough. d) Risk management Risk Mitigation Increased dog fouling following the removal of standalone dog waste bins. Deliver a comprehensive communications campaign advising residents that dog waste can be disposed of in any litter bin or through household residual waste collections. Continue targeted enforcement activity and promote responsible dog ownership through edu cation and awareness initiatives. Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 10 Negative public perception of the removal of dog waste bins. Implement a proactive communications plan explaining the reasons for the change, the financial benefits to the Council and the continued availability of alternative disposal facilities. Provide adequate advance notice before bin removal takes place. Residents are unaware of alternative disposal arrangements, resulting in confusion during implementation. Place permanent stickers on litter bins, particularly in parks and open spaces, with messaging such as "I can take dog waste too" to reinforce awareness of the new arrangements. Increased usage of litter bins leading to overflowing bins in parks, open spaces and popular dog walking routes. Reinvest £60,000 per annum into Street Cleansing services to provide additional servicing capacity. Monitor usage patterns following implementation and increase collection frequencies at identified hotspot locations where necessary. Increased waste disposal costs as approximately 174 tonnes of dog waste per annum transfers into the wider waste stream. Monitor disposal tonnages and associated costs following implementation. The proposed reinvestment into Street Cleansing services will provide flexibility to manage any increase in disposal costs. Localised cleanliness issues arising during the transition period. Adopt a phased implementation programme and undertake regular inspections during and after the removal process. Respond promptly to operational issues and adjust servicing schedules where required. Failure to realise anticipated savings due to unforeseen operational pressures. Closely monitor service performance, collection frequencies and disposal costs throughout the implementation period. Review operational arrangements regularly to ensure financial and service objectives are achieved. Reputational risk to the Council if the proposal is perceived as a reduction in environmental services. Clearly communicate that the proposal does not remove disposal facilities for dog owners but instead utilises the existing litter bin network more effectively. Highlight the reinvestment into frontline cleansing services and the environmental benefits of r educing duplication within the waste infrastructure. e) Procurement The provision of collecting dog bins falls under the current Environmental Spec ialist Cleaning contract provided by Charman Environmental Services. The contract includes not only the collection of dog bin waste, but also open access public toilet cleaning, Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 11 collection & disposal of clinical and offensive waste and the safe removal and disposal of asbestos (on an ad- hoc basis). The contract has recently been extended (via Cabinet Member minutes. No.1694), with the report setting out the saving opportunity from ceasing the dog bin waste element of the contract. 6. Consultation & engagement No formal public consultation has been undertaken or is proposed in relation to this decision. The proposal does not remove a service available to residents but rationalises the infrastructure used to provide that service. Residents will continue to have access to suitable and convenient dog waste disposal facilities through the Council's existing l itter bin network and household residual waste collection arrangements. As a result, a suitable alternative disposal method is already available across the Borough and will remain in place following implementation. Given that the proposal represents a change in the method of collection rather than the withdrawal of a service, formal consultation is not considered necessary or proportionate. The Council is satisfied that residents will continue to have reasonable access to dog waste disposal facilities and that the proposal will not adversely impact the ability of dog owners to dispose of waste responsibly. Whilst no formal consultation is proposed, a comprehensive communications and engagement programme will be undertaken prior to implementation. This will ensure residents are informed of the changes and understand the alternative disposal arrangements available to them. This programme will include: • Stickers on litter bins, particularly within parks, open spaces and popular dog walking routes, promoting their use for dog waste disposal through clear messaging such as "I can take dog waste too". • Information published through the Council's website, social media channels and other appropriate communications platforms. • Briefings for Ward Members and relevant stakeholders. • Engagement with operational teams, including Street Scene, Green Spaces, Communications and the Council's waste contractor, to support effective implementation. The communications approach will focus on raising awareness, supporting behavioural change and promoting responsible dog ownership. Feedback received through routine resident enquiries and service monitoring following implementation will be reviewed and us ed to inform any operational adjustments required. Executive Decision Report Cabinet Member 14 October 2026 Classification: Part 1 Public Page 12 7. Timetable for implementation Subject to approval of the recommendations and completion of the democratic call -in period, implementation of the approved changes will commence immediately thereafter. The Council will work with its waste contractor to formally notify them of the service change and agree the arrangements for the removal of the standalone dog waste bin network. A communications programme will be delivered during the implementation period to ensure residents are aware of the forthcoming changes and the alternative disposal arrangements available. The removal of bins will commence from Week 12 following approval of this decision. Activity Indicative Timescale Cabinet Member Decision and completion of call-in period Week 0 Formal notification issued to waste contractor regarding cessation of dog waste bin service Within Week 1 Communications and resident awareness campaign launched Weeks 1-11 Installation of awareness stickers on litter bins Weeks 2-10 Operational planning and removal programme agreed with contractor Weeks 1-11 Commencement of phased removal of standalone dog waste bins From Week 12 Monitoring of operational impacts, litter bin usage and resident feedback Ongoing following implementation The phased implementation approach will provide sufficient time to inform residents of the changes, promote the use of alternative disposal facilities and ensure that operational arrangements are in place prior to the removal of the existing dog waste bin network. Following implementation, service performance will continue to be monitored and operational adjustments made where necessary to maintain expected standards of cleanliness across the Borough. List of appendices attached NIL. List of Background Papers NIL.