Waste collections will start earlier from 6am due to extreme hot weather
Due to very high temperatures expected this week, Colchester City Council will start recycling and rubbish collections at 6am, one hour earlier than the usual 7am, from Tuesday 23 June 2026 for the rest of the week.
Temperatures across the city are set to exceed 35 degrees centigrade this week, and the council took the decision for the safety of its collection crews. These high temperatures make working conditions difficult for crews and this early start gives them more time to work in the cooler part of the day.
This means we’re asking you to place your recycling, rubbish and food waste bins out by 6am on your collection day.
With lower temperatures forecast for 29 June 2026 onwards, the council will resume collections starting at 7am from then. Help us to reach as many residents as possible and pass this information on to as many friends, family members and neighbours. We will continue to monitor the weather conditions over the coming days, and we will update and advise more if needed.
To see your next scheduled collection day check your recycling calendar.