Design and choice of construction materials for the bin area will depend upon the individual site. The bins should be placed side by side so that residents do not have to squeeze past to access other bins.
All bin storage areas must have:
- adequate lighting – natural and/or artificial.
- good natural ventilation if completely enclosed e.g. high and low level air bricks.
- a smooth, easily cleanable floor e.g. paving or concrete float finished.
- the floor laid to a fall with suitable drainage.
- a suitable enclosure e.g. wooden fencing, brick or concrete walls.
In addition, communal bin storage areas for flats and maisonettes should have:
- a notice showing which properties are entitled to deposit refuse.
- suitable “bump strips” provided internally on doors and walls to help prevent damage from loaded bins.
- lockable double doors with a clear opening of at least 1500mm and a facility to hold doors open during collection.
For developments incorporating both commercial and residential premises the refuse bins must not be stored in the same location or must be clearly signed to avoid contamination.
The submitted plans for mixed use developments should clearly annotate which refuse storage areas are for the residential element and which are for the commercial element.