Bin proposals spark petition

Residents of Folly Island have started a petition against proposals to introduce wheelie bins on the island from next year.

The picturesque island with its narrow streets is a conservation zone and currently uses a system of sacks and boxes.

The new system would see the introduction of at least three wheelie bins and a food caddy.

The petition raises many concerns about the proposed scheme, including:

• Reduced Access: Being a historic town, Folly Island has limited accessibility as is with the current parking arrangements and narrowed pathways. Adding wheelie bins to pathways will only restrict movement through the island further.
• Pollution: Wheelie Bins will encourage fly tipping in the area, especially as the majority of gardens on Folly Island are not large enough to house the required bins. This means those stored on streets or left in the alleyways will only lead to an increase in fly tipping and pollution to our streets and waterways.
• Rats and Pests: In addition to this the change to a monthly collection means that the sitting waste will only attract Rats and Pests. Living beside the river, these are combated currently with the system which collects waste weekly and prevents build up.
• Bridge: The only access to Folly Island is a bridge on and off the Island. In the past a full size lorry was trialled before and quickly switched to a smaller one to best service the area. The new plans take no consideration for the bridge weight limit and also puts it at risk. The bridge has been struck multiple times before and had to be closed for access. 
• Traffic and Safety:  There is also an increased risk of bin lorries causing traffic and safety issues due to the narrow road and on street parking. 

The proposals coincide with the appointment of a new waste collection contractor, Veolia, who will take over from Urbaser in May 2025.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to sign the petition against wheelie bins on Folly island at:
www.change.org/p/help-keep-folly-island-picture-perfect-reject-proposed-refuse-collection-changes.