Despite the increase, the council would still be the second-cheapest local authority in Wales for collections of six or seven bulky waste items.
Civic Square in Port Talbot (Image: Lewis Smith)
The cost of bulky waste collections in Neath Port Talbot county are set to increase over the coming weeks after a decision made by the local council.
The uplift in price was given the go-ahead by cabinet members in a move they expect will generate around £60,000 worth of additional income each year for the local authority.
It will see an increase in the existing flat-rate bulky waste collection charge from £29.50 to £39.50 for up to seven items. The will now be implemented from November 1, 2026. For the latest Neath Port Talbot news, sign up to our newsletter here.
It was one of several options considered by council bosses during scrutiny, including the potential for a two tier bulky waste charging structure of £24 for up to three items and £48 for up to seven items.
However, a report said officers recommended the flat-rate option as it was straight forward to implement and minimised the risk of customer disputes.
The report said: “Historically, the council operated a two-tier charging system for bulky household waste collections, with one charge for up to three items and a further charge for four to six items.
“Following significant customer complaints regarding item counts, the council adopted a flat-rate approach allowing up to seven items and established clearer definitions of what constitutes an item.
“Bulky waste charges have been reviewed on a number of previous occasions, including consideration by scrutiny committees and task and finish groups.
“Although different charging structures have been considered over time, the flat-rate approach has been regarded as the clearest and most practical model, reducing disputes and providing residents with a clearer understanding of the service available.”
A council spokesperson said the service currently carries out around 6,000 collections across the borough each year. Ensure our latest news and sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source.
They highlighted that despite the £10 increase, Neath Port Talbot Council would still be the second-cheapest local authority in Wales for collections of six or seven bulky waste items.
The move was approved by members of Neath Port Talbot Council at a cabinet meeting held on October 21, 2026.
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