Luton Borough Council

15/12/2025 - Simpler Recycling is coming to Luton

Recycling and waste collections in Luton will change from late March 2026, making it easier for residents to recycle more and reduce waste.

Luton Council is preparing to introduce the government’s national Simpler Recycling scheme, which aims to make recycling consistent across England.

What’s changing?

From late March, households will receive weekly food waste collections in line with Simpler Recycling legislation.

• Residents in houses will receive a small kitchen caddy (5 litre) and a larger kerbside caddy (23 litre)

• Residents in flats will receive a small kitchen caddy (5 litre) to be emptied into a larger communal food waste bin

• Food waste caddies will begin being delivered to households from February onwards

This new service is supported by grant funding from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Glass collections will increase in frequency, moving from monthly to every two weeks.

General waste and recycling will stay the same with collections every two weeks.

Why it matters

Councillor Ghulam Abbas, portfolio holder for strategic waste authority, said: “We know how important it is to make recycling straightforward. The changes will make bin day simpler, reduce waste and help protect our environment. Separating food waste will keep your general waste bin fresher and allow us to turn the food into renewable energy and fertiliser for crops.

“We’ll be supporting residents every step of the way with clear guidance to ensure everyone understands what’s changing, and how to make the most of the new service. Together, we can make Luton a cleaner, greener and a thriving place to live, work and visit.”

All households will receive a leaflet in January outlining the upcoming changes and how the new service will work.

Details regarding the start date of the first food waste collection will be shared with residents closer to the time.

Find out more about Simpler Recycling.