The system, which is common in Europe, takes away the requirement for wheelie bins but maintains the four waste streams system. The underground storage model is being trialled for two years with the expectation that Fife Council takes over the running of the system in 2026.

Commenting on the system, Joe Headon from developer Headon Developments stated that “it’s a challenge accommodating four wheelie bins per house, they block pavements, get blown over and can overflow attracting seagulls in places like St Andrews”.

He added: “This system provides large capacity communal bins that take away these issues. There are also considerable benefits to the environment with longer periods between collections reducing fuel usage for refuse collection vehicles. Positive outcomes have been experienced with other such installations across the UK, and it’s anticipated that the St. Andrews development will enjoy the same benefits. We are grateful to Fife Council in facilitating this initiative.”

John Rodigan, head of service for Environmental and Building Services, said: “Fife Council are very supportive of the subterranean domestic waste storage model at St Andrews West. We look forward to assessing the environmental benefits that will accrue and potentially extending this system to other strategic developments across Fife in the future.”