Council wants more say over bin storage in new buildings

Douglas Council wants more say over how bins are stored in new buildings across the capital.

It’s asking the government to give local authorities powers to ensure developers design adequate spaces to keep waste.

As the capital’s collection authority, the council has a duty to manage the rubbish produced by households and businesses

The request for more powers comes from the environmental services committee, which is drafting guidelines for architects to outline what it expects in terms of bin storage. 

Committee member, councillor Andrew Bentley says communal bins and recycling is often considered as an afterthought, and there needs to be clear guidelines introduced.

He claims there’s no excuse for not providing adequate space for waste storage, and like fire safety and disabled access, "it’s one of those things developers need to take into account".

Those behind plans for 38 new flats on South Quay were forced to go back to the drawing board by councillors to address concerns over bin storage, which were met by the developer.