Dublin is set to ban plastic bin bags from its streets, with a ban set to begin on September 16th in 90 designated areas.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the issue of animals, particularly seagulls, ripping open rubbish bags left out for collection, which has led to increased litter and unsanitary conditions in the city.
The initial phase of this plan will target key areas in the heart of Dublin, including Dawson Street, Grafton Street, George’s Street, and Temple Bar. These are some of the busiest and most visited parts of the city, where the problem of torn bin bags and scattered waste has been particularly acute.
Dublin’s Lord Mayor, James Geoghegan, has acknowledged the challenges this new policy may pose for businesses and residents who lack space for individual wheelie bins.
To address this, the council is providing a grace period until January 1st, during which time affected parties must make alternative arrangements, such as adopting communal bins or other types of containers.
Dublin City Council (DCC) is stepping up its efforts to keep the city clean. The council is increasing the number of cleaning staff, litter wardens, and road sweepers, and it has plans to eventually extend the ban on bin bags to more areas across the city.
DCC is also undertaking a significant upgrade of its fleet, investing €8.5 million in new equipment. This includes the addition of 22 new sweeper vehicles.
Over the next three months, the council will be expanding the area of the city centre that benefits from a 24-hour cleaning service, ensuring that Dublin’s streets remain cleaner and more welcoming for both residents and visitors.
