Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole | Posted on March 19th, 2026 | return to news

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole public bins to be upgraded

Many of the public bins across the conurbation are well past their sell-by date and are difficult for crews to empty.

Public bins across the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) area are set to be upgraded.
BCP Council currently manages around 2,800 litter and dog waste bins, many of which are now old, discourage usage and are difficult for crews to empty safely. Under the new proposals, bins will be modernised to standard designs, so they’re more easily recognised. Many will also be significantly larger — reducing issues with overflowing and full bins.

Residents will benefit from cleaner streets and improved public spaces, as bin locations are matched to how busy the area is. This means rubbish is more likely to go in a bin — and stay there.

The litter bins will be replaced in a phased plan over several years and initially be funded by £200,000 from the bin replacement Capital Investment Budget. A further £60,000 from the Waste Infrastructure Grant will support the phased replacement plan.

The council will also look at opportunities to introduce ‘recycling on the go’ bins where suitable, giving people more ways to recycle their rubbish whilst out and about.

Under the proposals, and in line with many UK councils, separate dog waste bins would be phased out and replaced with combined bins that are easier to maintain, less likely to overflow, and more convenient for residents, who will be able to dispose of all their waste in one place.

In busy town centre locations, the council may also explore other solutions such as underground bins, which offer more capacity and help reduce street clutter.

These changes will also make collections safer and more efficient, reducing manual handling risks for crews and ensuring vehicles can access bins more easily without damaging surfaces. Better placed, better designed bins mean fewer wasted journeys and a more environmentally friendly collection.

Residents will be able to request new public bins through a simple online form, with each request assessed against need and operational feasibility using clear criteria.

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for Climate Response, Environment & Energy, said: “These proposals are a really positive step forward for our communities. By modernising our public bins and making sure they’re placed where they’re genuinely needed, we can keep our streets cleaner and create spaces that everyone can enjoy.

“The improvements will make a real difference to the look and feel of our towns, while also helping our crews work more safely and efficiently. This is about ensuring we provide a simple, reliable service that supports local pride and a cleaner, greener future for the whole BCP area.”

The recommendation will be discussed at Cabinet and, if agreed, will be formally adopted at a full council meeting.