New Forest District Council (NFDC) is advising residents that their waste and recycling collections will start earlier than usual for the rest of this week due to the amber heat alert in place. 

Residents are asked to put their waste containers out by 5am on their collection day this week (Wednesday 12 to Friday 14 August 2026). Residents who normally receive an early collection may wish to put their bins out the evening before, ideally no earlier than 6pm. 

The earlier start times apply to all waste collections, including household general waste, recycling, glass, garden waste, business waste, and healthcare waste collections. 

The temporary arrangements are in place to help crews work safely during the forecast high temperatures. 

Alongside the hot weather, the council is also planning for the possibility of some disruption to collection rounds as a result of ongoing traffic congestion and road closures linked to the ongoing heathland fire near the A31. 

All waste collection crews are operating as normal, and the majority of scheduled collections are taking place. However, traffic delays across parts of the district may affect some rounds and place additional pressure on the service over the coming days. 

The council is working hard to keep collections moving and minimise disruption wherever possible. If a collection is missed, crews will return as soon as operationally possible. 

Residents whose bins have not been collected are encouraged to report a missed collection through the council's website so arrangements can be made for a return visit. 

Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said: 

"With temperatures remaining high and an amber heat-health alert in place, we're starting collections earlier to help protect our crews while they continue delivering this important service. 

"At the same time, the ongoing A31 closure and associated traffic congestion are creating challenges for some collection rounds. Although the majority of collections are taking place as normal, there may be some delays in certain areas. 

"Our crews are working incredibly hard in difficult conditions to keep services running, and I'm grateful for their efforts and for the patience shown by residents. If your collection is delayed, please bear with us and report any missed collection through our website so we can arrange a return visit where operationally possible. 

"Residents can also help by making sure their bins are presented by 5am while these temporary arrangements are in place." 

More information about waste and recycling collections is available at https://newforest.gov.uk/recyclingandrubbish