Residents in our region face high bulky waste collection charges compared to other parts of the country, according to new research.

As spring arrives, many households look for some seasonal decluttering, often disposing of large unwanted items such as sofas, mattresses, and wardrobes.

However, data from waste management experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk reveals that the South East has the highest bulky waste collection costs in the UK, with Waverley falling somewhere in the mid-range.

The study found that the South East leads the nation with the most costly bulky waste collection fees, with an average minimum charge of £44.81. The research analysed charges from all 382 UK councils, comparing the costs for collecting single bulky items, additional fees for fridge disposal, and the availability of discounts.

While Waverley Borough Council is not among the most expensive in the region, neighbouring councils feature prominently in the rankings. Runnymede Borough Council, which covers areas such as Addlestone, Chertsey, and Egham, tops the list both in the South East and across the UK with a minimum charge of £85—166 percent higher than the UK average of £32.

Spelthorne Borough Council, covering towns like Staines-upon-Thames and Ashford, follows closely with a minimum charge of £80. Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council ranks third in the region, charging £69.50 for the collection of bulky waste.

The study found that Northern Ireland has the lowest average minimum charge of just £5.97, in stark contrast to the South East’s £44.81.

With collection fees varying widely across the UK, the research suggests that residents may benefit from exploring alternative disposal methods, such as local recycling centres and community reuse schemes - or indeed repairing and reusing items.

For the data for the South East is available here.