Solar-powered smart bins and picnic tables installed in Cambridge city centre
Cambridge City Council is trialling new seating and smart technology waste bins in the city centre.
New wooden picnic tables, with bench seating attached, are being installed at various locations around the city centre, initially around the market square, and later in other locations – potentially including Fitzroy Street and Christ’s Lane.
And a number of ‘solar street bins’ are being installed that automatically compact down litter and contain sensors to indicate when they are nearly full.
The bins’ smart design means they can accept up to 10 times more waste than a typical street bin, and the frequency with which they need to be emptied can be reduced by up to 90 per cent.
Cllr Rosy Moore, executive councillor for climate change, environment and city centre said: “I look forward to seeing people using our new bins and benches this summer and encourage people to revisit the city centre safely as we emerge from lockdown restrictions. We love to hear feedback on the trial of these new amenities from people who have used them and would welcome suggestions for where additional bins and benches could be located in the coming months.
“I’d also ask everyone using the new picnic tables to help us keep the city centre tidy by disposing any litter that they generate responsibly – perhaps by putting it in one of the new smart bins!”
Ian Sandison, CEO of Cambridge BID, said: “As the city opens up and residents and visitors spend more time in the city centre, these community seating areas support the local economy and encourage people to dwell more, take their time and enjoy our beautiful city.”
Email projectdevelopment@cambridge.gov.uk with feedback.
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