CHANGES to the days and weeks of waste collections in Somerset are set to come into effect from today (Monday, February 12).

The changes will be introduced in two phases; the first of the two begins on the week beginning Monday, February 12 2024.

Phase one areas include the former Sedgemoor district, Somerset West and Taunton, and a small portion of South Somerset.

The second phase is due to begin in June 2024 and will include the former Mendip district, and the majority of South Somerset.

Every household with a new collection day should have received a letter from Somerset Council with regards to the changes.

Some towns and villages may become served by more than one route, so changes may affect some streets but not others.

There will be no changes to collection days for garden waste subscribers, clinical waste collections, communal property collections, or schools waste collection.

According to Somerset Council, the changes to the waste collection days and routes will reduce carbon emissions and improve the efficiency and quality of service.

A spokesperson for Somerset Council added: "The new routes should cut vehicle mileage and reduce carbon emissions by 7%. We will also reduce the number of vehicles on the road."

The changes will be cost effective, and will not incur any extra costs for Somerset Council amid its financial emergency.

"Waste collections are carried out on behalf of Somerset Council by their contactor Suez," a spokesperson said.

"The changes made will increase efficiency and therefore be cost effective. Any costs incurred by changing collections are paid for by Suez.

"The frequency of all waste collections will stay the same."

Some households will receive a one-off refuse collection on a Saturday to make sure they do not miss out while the changeover happens - but this should have already been made clear in the letter to affected households received in January.