A new waste collection service will launch in the New Forest next week.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) is introducing the changes from June 9, across New Milton, Brockenhurst, Lymington and nearby areas.

The scheme is part of an upgraded waste service that will see residents receive wheelie bins and food waste recycling caddies.

Councillor Geoffrey Blunden, NFDC’s portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, said: "I am delighted to see the beginning of this ambitious initiative, the launch of the new waste and recycling collection service, which will benefit over 30,000 properties in the New Forest.

"This service represents a significant step forward, combining various elements to transform the way waste is collected in our district.

"Our crews will be navigating new, optimised routes, utilising innovative vehicles, and working with a cutting-edge in-cab system that provides live updates about collections.

"The introduction of wheelie bins and a dedicated food waste recycling service marks an important shift in how we manage waste."

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The new collections will run on different schedules from the current black and clear sack system.

Residents are encouraged to check their collection day using the letter from NFDC or by visiting the council’s website.

The new scheme includes weekly food waste collections, with general waste and recycling picked up on alternate weeks.

NFDC is advising residents to begin using their new bins and caddies after their final sack collection and to refer to the ‘Go!’ leaflet for details on what goes in each bin and what to do on collection day.

Cllr Blunden said the changes are part of a broader vision.

He said: "Naturally, some initial challenges are to be expected, but I am confident that our teams and residents will swiftly adapt to these improvements.

"The more I witness the behind-the-scenes efforts involved in this change, the more impressed I am by how much planning and preparation has gone into making it a reality.

"Above all, this new approach will encourage our community to better recycle food waste and move towards a more sustainable future for the New Forest."

The second phase of the rollout, covering Bransgore, Ringwood and Fordingbridge, will begin in October, with a third phase planned for March 2026.