The council is introducing new charges for residents who want their garden waste removed and recycled.

From April, residents who opt in will have to pay £35 a year to continue to have their green waste taken away for recycling.

The move will also see an end to the familiar sight of green waste bags blowing away in the wind when they've been emptied: they’re being replaced by two sizes of wheelie bins.

Southampton City Council says the charges are in line with those made by neighbouring authorities, and have been brought in because of the need to make significant savings.

“In the recent budget consultation, residents told us that they care most about libraries and youth services and so whilst we have sought to ensure that the new budget protects the most vulnerable in the city, we have had to make difficult decisions and cuts elsewhere,” explained cabinet member for environment and transport Cllr Asa Thorpe.

“For less than £1.50 per collection (£35 annual charge for a 240 litre bin), the service is a convenient way for you to recycle your garden waste and is now a fairer scheme - as only those who actually use the service will pay for it. Of course our household waste recycling centres will continue to accept garden waste at no charge.”

For more details and to sign up to the service, see the council’s website here.