Garden waste collections have resumed free of charge in East Dunbartonshire ahead of a permit introduction that will make it a paid for service.

Residents in the area can see their garden waste collected as usual until July after which charges will apply.

This decision was unanimously voted by the council in December to reflect the practices of the majority of other Scottish local authorities.

As budgets decrease and costs rise, it has become increasingly unfeasible for the council to provide the non-statutory service without charge.

The introduction of fees allows for the continuation of the service, albeit in a more financially sustainable manner.

Beginning in June, permits for waste collection can be applied for through various methods including online, by phone, or at community hubs by appointment.

Confirmation of the exact date for permit applications will be announced closer to the time.

Each household can apply for a permit for their green bin at an annual cost of £50.

This fee includes 19 fortnightly collections spanning from March to November.

Glasgow Times: Residents in the area can see their garden waste collected as usual until July

Councillor Gordan Low said: "Until now, East Dunbartonshire has chosen to offer a free garden waste collection, however, this has been subsidised from Council Tax paid by all households, including those who do not use it and those who do not have gardens.

"To retain a garden waste collection service, it is necessary to introduce a charge to contribute towards the cost of its provision."

The implementation of charges will commence on Sunday, July 7, after which residents will need to display a permit on their green bin for their garden waste to be collected.

Those opting not to purchase a permit are still able to dispose of garden waste at the Mavis Valley Recycling Centre free of any charges.

Despite the annual fee, a pro-rata payment of £26.62 per green bin will be required for 2024, due to the timing of the charge's introduction.

For further information on this new system, a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions list has been compiled and is readily available on the council’s website.