South Kesteven District Council Receives National Award for Waste Collection Services

South Kesteven District Council (SKDC), a Lincolnshire-based authority, has received a national award for its waste collection services. The council’s bin crews were recognized as the most improved performer at the national APSE Performance Networks Awards. Throughout 2024, SKDC’s waste services underwent a revamp, which included the introduction of separate paper and card collections, a new battery recycling service, and the deployment of new bin lorries. This achievement follows an earlier period in the year when SKDC’s implementation of purple-lidded bins for segregating paper and card caused dissatisfaction among local residents. Additionally, the authority began attaching tags to residents’ bins when incorrect waste materials were found inside. At the time, one householder described the scheme as “petty and ridiculous,” while another stated it discouraged them from recycling altogether. Despite this criticism, the adopted strategy contributed to the council’s award win. Councillor Rhys Baker commented: “This sort of improvement doesn’t simply ‘happen’ and I am so proud of the team. I couldn’t ask for a better Christmas present than this national recognition for our crews and staff.” He further indicated that the council plans additional investments in its equipment and vehicles, confirming that its new depot is scheduled to open by the end of 2025.