Decision details

Date of Decision:

06/08/2025

Title:

Garden waste – Ending the subscription period early for new garden waste subscribers

Decision Maker:

(Including Job Title)

Andrew Bramidge – Strategic Director

Details of Specific Delegation

or

Delegation contained in the relevant Sub-Scheme of Delegation.

The Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment is authorised in accordance with the Officer Delegation Scheme to carry out functions on behalf of Council and the Executive.

Decision:

The decision is to close the Garden waste subscription form on the 06/08/2025, the normal closing date of form is last Friday/Day in September annually.

Reasons for the Decision:

The decision has been made because the garden waste service has been suspended from the 06/08/2025 with the aim to reopen on the collection service from 1^st September 2025.

By not closing the subscription page we cause:

1.    Lack of Transparency

Subscribers may not be aware the service is suspended when signing up, leading to misinformed decisions.

It can create confusion and frustration, especially if expectations are not managed clearly.

2. Value for Money

Residents are paying for a service they are not receiving, which undermines trust and perceived fairness.

Even if the suspension is temporary, charging during downtime can be seen as poor practice unless compensation is offered.

3. Reputational Risk

Continuing to accept subscriptions during a suspension may be viewed as exploitative or misleading, damaging the council’s reputation.

It can lead to increased complaints, MP letters, and casework, adding pressure to already stretched services.

4. Operational Impact

New subscriptions during a suspension can inflate demand and complicate planning for when the service resumes.

It may also delay recovery efforts, as resources are diverted to manage new subscribers rather than stabilising the service.

5. Equity and Fairness

Existing subscribers may feel disadvantaged if new subscribers are added without receiving the service, especially if refunds or extensions are not offered.

It creates an imbalance in service delivery, which can be difficult to justify publicly.

Conflicts of interest declared by the Decision Maker if they sit as a Cabinet appointed representative to an outside body which relates to the decision:

There are no conflicts of interest declared by any Executive Members.

Dispensations Granted:

(If any)

None

Reports or parts of reports considered

N/A