HOUSEHOLDS in Braintree district will soon receive letters outlining changes to waste and recycling collections.
Braintree Council is sending the letters as part of its preparations for a new waste and recycling system.
The system is set to launch on June 1, 2026, in line with the Government's Simpler Recycling legislation.
The updated service will include the collection of soft plastics, food and drink cartons, and glass.
Tom Cunningham, deputy leader and councillor responsible for transformation and the environment at Braintree Council, said: "This is a major step forward in how we manage waste and recycling across the district.
"We've taken great care to assess each property fairly and ensure the service is both practical and environmentally responsible.
"Most importantly, these changes are designed to make recycling easier and more accessible for our residents - helping households recycle more from their doorstep, reduce waste, and contribute to a cleaner, greener Braintree District for everyone."
To ensure each household receives the correct waste containers, the council has assessed properties based on access, storage space, and safety.
Most properties will be given the standard waste collection service, unless they meet criteria for a non-standard service.
Non-standard service criteria include steep slopes or banks, multiple steps, no front or rear garden, or waste containers that can only be accessed through the property.
Other factors, such as gravel access or alleyways, may also be considered.
Households on the standard service will keep their grey wheeled bin and receive two new 240-litre recycling bins: a red-lidded bin for paper and card, and a blue-lidded bin for mixed recycling.
Those on the non-standard service will receive lidded boxes for paper and card and lidded boxes for mixed recycling. The boxes are four by 55 litres.
The council will no longer provide clear plastic sacks for recycling.
All recyclables must be placed loose in the new bins or boxes.
Residents who believe their property has been assessed incorrectly can request a review.
Details on eligibility and the review process will be included in the letter.
Flats and properties with communal bins will receive separate communications in November.
More information is available at braintree.gov.uk/wastechanges.