SWISCo is taking further action to improve recycling collections across Torbay following a challenging period that has resulted in delays to some recycling rounds. Additional resources are now in place to support crews, while a range of operational measures are helping services return to expected levels.

Recent weeks have seen crews working through exceptionally high temperatures during the summer heatwave, placing additional pressure on frontline services across the Bay alongside an anticipated increase in demand as holidays get underway. Despite these challenging conditions, collection teams have continued to work hard to maintain services, with black bin and garden waste collections remaining on schedule and most recycling collections completed.

In addition to the challenges presented by hot weather and increased recycling volumes, collection crews have also experienced longer waiting times at the Waste Transfer Station due to ongoing improvement works. These delays have increased the time needed to complete some rounds and have contributed to disruption in parts of the recycling service.

SWISCo recognises that delayed collections can be frustrating for residents and would like to thank those affected for their patience and understanding while improvements are being made.

A range of measures have already been introduced to support these improvements. Additional temporary drivers and loaders have been recruited to strengthen collection crews, helping to increase capacity and improve the service's ability to respond to periods of increased demand.

Staggered start times have also been introduced during periods of excessive heat, enabling crews to begin work earlier in the day when temperatures are lower. The approach has supported employee wellbeing while also helping teams work as efficiently as possible during the recent hot weather.

A Torbay Council spokesperson said:

"We know that delays to recycling collections have been frustrating for some residents and I'd like to thank people for their patience while we work with SWISCo colleagues to improve the service."

"The recent heatwave has created additional pressures, but we have acted quickly to strengthen the service by bringing in additional staff and putting further support in place for our crews."

"I'd like to thank our frontline teams, who have continued working in difficult conditions to keep collections running and minimise disruption wherever possible."

"Our priority is providing residents with a reliable recycling service, and we are already seeing positive progress as these additional measures take effect."

With additional staff now supporting collection crews and recovery measures underway, SWISCo expects recycling collection performance to improve over the coming weeks. Some delays may continue while operational issues are resolved, but every effort is being made to return the service to expected levels as quickly as possible.

Teams are continuing to monitor collection schedules closely and resources are being targeted where they are needed most to help reduce delays and maintain service reliability across Torbay.

Residents should continue to present their recycling as normal while collection crews work to reduce delays and improve service performance.

SWISCo will continue to provide updates through its website and social media channels.