The launch of Cotswold District Council’s increased waste collection service has been delayed.

Planned to go live in November, the service will now begin at the end of March next year, after the new administration reviewed the project and concluded there was a high risk that the date would not be achieved.

Councillors say there were a number of issues including the new vehicles, which not be delivered and ready in time for the November date.

Councillor Andrew Doherty said: “Recycling and waste collection is a service that touches every resident in the Cotswolds.

"It’s vitally important that it is delivered well and that changes are planned and communicated properly.

"Since the new CDC administration started work we’ve reviewed the project and come to the conclusion that there were significant risks that we couldn’t and shouldn’t ignore.

“November launch dates also meant that no-deal Brexit uncertainty added risks to the shipment of parts and equipment and to the timely onward transfer of our recycling.

“While the new service is delayed it does have the benefit to residents that the weekly garden waste service will continue, in line with our manifesto commitment.

“The new service will bring some big improvements to our waste collection and recycling. It will be more environmentally friendly and allow residents to recycle more than ever before.”

The new service will include:

● Separate food and garden waste collection

● Weekly food waste collection

● Fortnightly garden waste service

● Fortnightly dry recycling collection

● Fortnightly refuse collection

● More materials recycled at the kerbside (small electricals, textiles, batteries)

● New recycling sacks for cardboard and additional larger food waste caddies