We, the residents of the London Borough of Havering, call on Havering Council to modernise its household waste collection service by introducing wheelie bins and improving the reliability of refuse collections across the borough.

Too many residents experience recurring missed collections, leaving rubbish bags outside for days, particularly during periods of hot weather. This creates unpleasant odours, attracts flies, foxes and other pests, and presents unnecessary public health and environmental concerns.

Unlike many neighbouring London boroughs, Havering still relies on rubbish sacks rather than wheelie bins. This leaves waste vulnerable to being torn open by foxes, scattered across our streets, and exposed to the elements when collections are delayed.

Introducing wheelie bins would:

• Improve public hygiene.
• Reduce litter from split bags.
• Deter foxes, vermin and pests.
• Help keep streets cleaner.
• Improve the appearance of our neighbourhoods.
• Reduce unpleasant odours during periods of hot weather.
• Bring Havering in line with many neighbouring councils.

We recognise that introducing wheelie bins would require investment and planning. However, many neighbouring councils have already demonstrated that it can be successfully implemented.

We ask Havering Council to:

• Carry out a borough-wide feasibility study into introducing wheelie bins.
• Improve the reliability of household waste collections.
• Engage with residents on modernising Havering's waste collection service.
• Deliver a cleaner, safer and more hygienic waste collection system for everyone.