Highway litter bins

We receive a number of requests each year for new bins, bin relocations and changes to existing locations. As every area is different, there is no set formula for deciding where bins should be provided. Each request is assessed on its own merits to ensure bins are located, objectively, where they are most needed, provide the greatest benefit to residents, businesses and visitors, and can be easily and regularly serviced.

How we decide where bins are located

When considering requests, we take into account:

Levels of pedestrian activity and potential usage.
Evidence of heavy littering or cleansing issues that can be reasonably assessed to be mitigated by the placement of a bin.
The availability of nearby bins.
The potential impact on neighbouring residents and businesses.
The overall benefit to the local area.

New bins are often installed on a three-month trial basis. We will decide if the placement of a new bin has made any impact and delivers the required effectiveness.

Where bins are normally provided

Litter bins are generally located in areas with higher footfall, such as:

Town centres and shopping parades.
Train stations and bus stops.
Well-used pedestrian routes.

Although litter bins are generally prioritised for higher-footfall locations, provision in predominantly residential streets may be considered where there is clear evidence of need.

Dog waste disposal

Dedicated dog waste bins are only provided within parks and open spaces and are managed by the council's parks service.
On the public highway, litter bins are provided primarily for general litter.
Dog walkers may use highway litter bins to dispose of bagged dog waste where available.
Dog waste bins and litter bins: Dog waste bins in parks and green spaces are emptied more frequently, while highway litter bins are typically serviced in line with the street cleansing schedule.

What else do we consider?

When assessing requests, we also consider the impact a bin may have on nearby residents and businesses.

For example:

Bins that are used mainly for dog waste can sometimes create unpleasant odours, particularly during warmer weather.
Additional bins can lead to overflowing waste if used heavily.
Bin locations can sometimes attract misuse, including the disposal of household waste or fly-tipping.

For these reasons, all requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure that any changes deliver a clear and lasting benefit to the wider community. Where a bin is causing persistent problems, particularly through misuse or associated fly-tipping, removal may be considered as a last resort.

Your waste is your responsibility

Where bins are not available, everyone is expected to act responsibly by taking their litter home or carrying it until a bin is available.

Fixed penalty notices for envirocrimes

If you're interested in volunteering to support your local area, why not consider joining our growing network of Street Friends? Working in partnership with the council, Street Friends play a vital role in helping to support us care for Bromley.

To get started, register to become a Street Friend. Once registered, you’ll be able to request equipment to assist with your volunteering, such as purple sacks for collecting leaves and other litter.

Our Street Friends are hugely valued members of the community, and their contribution can make a real difference in keeping Bromley clean and welcoming.