Garden waste collections

Garden waste is collected from households by Buckinghamshire Council every fortnight via a paid for subscription service. Separating garden waste from the rubbish bin means it is composted instead of being sent with your household waste. 

You can find out more about the garden waste service, what we can (and can't collect) and sign up here. 

Garden waste from households Buckinghamshire is collected and taken to composting facilities across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire. You can read more about the process here.

If you have a wheelie bin that you no longer need, here are a few ways to reuse or repurpose it.

Compost bin

You can convert your wheelie bin into a home composter. You will need some general household tools and a couple of hinges. Simply drill a few holes on each side of the bin to allow airflow, cut out a compost removal flap a few inches from the base of the bin (reattaching the flap with the hinges), and drill holes in the lid for added circulation. Voila, you have your very own compost bin!

If you want to add a bit more flair you could also add a tap to the bottom to drain any liquid (which makes great plant food) and some gravel at the very bottom which will create a sump for collecting the liquid which drains off the compost. Sitting your new compost bin on a couple of blocks allows better access to the tap.

We have created a step by step guide here.

Water butt

You can convert a wheelie bin into a water butt – for this you will need a water butt tap (available from most DIY shops) and a drill. Drill a hole near the bottom of your bin for the tap and connect. Drill a hole in the lid of the bin for the down pipe from your gutters.

We have created a step by step guide here. 

Storage bin

Give your bin a scrub, let it dry and then use it to store whatever you like. Like sports equipment, Christmas decorations, plant pots, garden toys, wood for the fire, garden sofa cushions, bags of dry pet food.

Garden planter

You could cut your wheelie bin in half to make a quirky garden planter or if you're feeling extra adventurous even a wheelbarrow!