More than 14,000 recycling bins have been delivered to households across the Lancaster district so far, replacing the former smaller boxes.
The 240 litre full size bins will replace 55 litre boxes across every property under Lancaster City Council between now and February 2026.
The improvements to household waste and recycling services are being introduced in three phases from now until April 2026.
The first phase to recycling boxes with wheelie bins aims to increase recycling capacity and reduce contamination rates.
The second phase involves establishing a weekly food waste recycling service to all residents as part of the government's new national waste strategy.
The council said this will "help to divert waste that ends up in landfill or incineration that could instead be converted into fertiliser or biofuel".
From February 9 to March 30, 2026, residents will receive everything they need to get started - a seven litre kitchen caddy for inside, a 23 litre caddy for outside with a locking mechanism, a pack of kitchen caddy liner bags and an information leaflet.
Food waste collections will begin the week after delivery of the caddies, and the waste will be taken to Lancashire County Council’s Farington Waste Recovery Park.
The third phase will begin from April 2026, when fortnightly collections of non-recyclable waste (grey bins); plastics, glass and cans; and paper and cardboard, will change to three-weekly collections.
The council said the move to a three-weekly household waste collection is in line with the government’s Simpler Recycling principles to help increase the amount of waste that is sent to recycling.
They said that evidence from other councils that have moved to three-weekly collections "show that it has significantly increased recycling rates".
A spokesperson for Lancaster City Council said: “We are making these changes to ensure every resident has enough space in their recycling containers for the switch to three-weekly collections from April 2026.
“We understand that not everyone has space on their property for 240 litre wheelie bins.
"Our friendly waste and engagement officers can assess whether you qualify for alternative containers.
“The quickest way to discuss your needs is to email wastechanges@lancaster.gov.uk. You can also call 01524 582491.”
If the change to a wheelie bin is a concern due to your mobility or medical condition, you can apply for an assisted collection by completing a form on their website.
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