Work on introducing doorstep glass recycling and determining the future of getting about in Bracknell are among the key projects the council has been doing over the last few months.
Bracknell Forest Council has been busy with exciting projects, including introducing doorstep glass recycling and planning future transport options.
The Labour cabinet has approved a kerbside glass recycling scheme, meaning residents will soon have glass collected from their homes for the first time. Currently, glass must be taken to bottle banks, which can lead to fly-tipping.
Set to launch in autumn next year, each household will get a slim-line wheelie bin, while larger communal bins will be provided for flats.
The council also approved a local transport strategy for 2025-2037, aiming to improve driving, walking, cycling, and public transport. While promoting active travel, it recognises car use remains vital, with a £5 million investment in the road network over four years. Additionally, bus routes 157, 158, 598, and X94 will be extended.
Bracknell stands out as the only council in Berkshire to report an underspend against its approved budget for 2024/25. On the ethics front, the council has adopted the Unison Anti-Racism Charter, committing to being "anti-racist, not just non-racist" in all dealings.
They've also launched a five-year climate strategy and set up the Communities Partnership Delivery Group, which includes over 20 organisations dedicated to building strong communities.
However, challenges remain. The delivery of a special school for autistic children at Buckler's Park in Crowthorne is on hold pending an update from the Department of Education. Financially, early monitoring suggests a predicted underspend of £2.275 million could turn into a £410,000 overspend due to emerging issues.
This report, covering Quarter 1 of 2025/26, will be discussed at the council's overview and scrutiny commission meeting on Thursday, September 4.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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