Bedford Borough Council unveils Christmas bin collection dates

As the festive season approaches, Bedford Borough Council is reminding residents not to be caught out by bin collection changes this Christmas. 

From Friday, 28 November, the updated Christmas bin collection calendars, including a printer-friendly version, will be live on the Council’s website. These will cover collection dates from December 2025 through to the end of March 2026. New collection calendars will then be issued when the new food waste collection service starts at the end of March.

Residents are asked to please place their bins out by 6am on the day of collection, as usual, to ensure crews can complete their rounds efficiently. Any extra recycling will be collected if placed in a clear sack or cardboard box next to the orange-lidded bin. Remember to squash and fold large cardboard boxes and place them neatly next to your recycling bin to help our crews handle them safely and quickly.

The Council’s Recycling and Waste team encourages everyone to plan ahead to keep services running smoothly and streets looking tidy. Simple ways to be prepared include:

• Download and save your calendar: www.bedford.gov.uk/Bins
• Take a screenshot of your collection calendar for quick reference
• Set recurring alerts or reminders on your phone or digital calendar
• Write a sticky note for your fridge or somewhere visible at home

Residents are also encouraged to help reduce waste over the festive period. Wrapping paper that is plain, made from recyclable paper (without glitter, foil, or plastic coatings) can go in your recycling bin. It’s suggested that people avoid buying non-recyclable wrapping papers and instead consider reusing gift bags, fabric wraps, or recycled paper alternatives.

Councillor Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said, "We appreciate how busy everyone is in the run-up to Christmas, so we want to make bin collection as hassle-free as possible. Our crews work hard to keep Bedford Borough clean and green, especially during this festive period, so please help us by being ready for the change in collection dates. And remember, there’s no need for any early morning dashes in your dressing gown - stay warm, stay organised, and enjoy the season!"

Christmas and New Year collection dates:

Normal collections will resume from Monday 5 January.

If you have any questions about your collection day or need help accessing the calendar, visit the Council website or contact Bedford Borough Council Customer Services team: www.bedford.gov.uk/ContactUs

Let’s keep Bedford Borough festive, green, and tidy this Christmas!