Questions are being raised about the reported removal of public rubbish bins from locations around Windsor, with Hawkesbury City Council yet to publicly explain the extent or purpose of the changes.
The Gazette has been unable to locate a Council announcement, meeting resolution or published policy identifying how many bins have been removed, their locations or whether the removals are temporary or permanent.
Public bins may be removed for a range of operational reasons, including damage, vandalism, repeated disposal of household or commercial waste, maintenance, replacement works or changes to collection arrangements.
However, without a public explanation from Council, residents and businesses are left uncertain about why the bins have disappeared and whether they will be replaced.
Concerns for businesses and visitors
Public bins form a small but important part of a functioning town centre.
Windsor attracts shoppers, workers, tourists and visitors to its historic precinct, restaurants, cafés, parks and riverside areas. Removing bins without providing suitable alternatives could result in increased litter, waste being placed in private business bins or rubbish being left beside existing bins.
The issue may be particularly important around George Street, Windsor Mall, Thompson Square, McQuade Park and other heavily used public spaces.
Local businesses already contribute to keeping the town centre attractive and welcoming. If public waste facilities are reduced, businesses could face additional cleaning and disposal costs.
The accessibility of bins also matters for older residents, families, people walking dogs and visitors unfamiliar with the area.
Was the community consulted?
It is unclear whether Council consulted Windsor businesses, residents or community organisations before removing any bins.
It is also unknown whether Council conducted litter audits, monitored illegal dumping or assessed how far pedestrians would need to travel to reach the nearest remaining bin.
If the removals form part of a wider waste-management strategy, Council should publish that strategy and explain how the changes are expected to improve cleanliness or reduce costs.
If the bins were removed temporarily for repairs or replacement, signs at the affected locations could tell residents when new bins will be installed.
Gazette seeks answers
The Gazette has asked Hawkesbury City Council to confirm:
- how many public bins have been removed from Windsor since January 2026;
- the locations and dates of each removal;
- whether the removals are temporary or permanent;
- who authorised the decision;
- why the bins were removed;
- whether local businesses and residents were consulted;
- whether Council assessed the potential for increased litter or illegal dumping; and
- whether replacement bins will be installed.
Until Council provides those details, the Gazette is treating the matter as a reported removal of bins rather than a confirmed Council-wide policy.
Residents who have noticed bins disappearing are invited to contact the Gazette with the location, an approximate date of removal and photographs where available.
Council’s response will be added when received. Below are the questions the Gazette has asked:
Dear Council Media Team
The Hawkesbury Gazette has received reports that public rubbish bins have been removed from locations in and around Windsor.
To ensure our reporting is accurate, could Council please respond to the following questions:
Does Council disputes reports that public bins have been removed from Windsor, Richmond and Wilberforce?
- How many public bins have been removed from Windsor since January 1, 2026, and what were their locations and removal dates?
- Are the removals temporary or permanent, who authorised them, and why were they considered necessary?
- Were Windsor businesses, residents or community organisations consulted or notified before the bins were removed?
- Did Council assess the likely effects on litter and illegal dumping, and has it received complaints about overflowing bins, increased litter or waste being placed in private business bins?
- Will replacement bins be installed, and does Council have a policy or service standard governing the number, location and removal of public bins?
The Gazette would appreciate any response to this matter at anytime. Council’s response will be reported in full.
