North Herts Council has confirmed plans to launch a new mobile app designed to help residents manage their waste collections and access a wide range of council services — all in one place.

The "citizen app," developed by tech company Cloud9, will cost the council £89,677 over a maximum four-year contract and is expected to go live soon to support the rollout of the district's new waste and recycling services.

According to the council, the app will not just cover waste collection days and recycling guidance but will also provide a hub for local information — from council news and social media updates to leisure centre details, restaurant listings, councillor contacts, and service reporting tools.

Sarah Kingsley, Director for Environment, signed off the decision on 24 October 2025.

The app aims to "improve communication with residents and make it easier for people to access key council services in one convenient digital platform."

The move comes as part of the wider waste service changes introduced across North Herts in August. The app is expected to help reduce confusion about collection schedules and cut the number of missed collections. It also supports the council's goal of improving recycling rates and lowering contamination levels.

The council says the app will be free to download and optional to use. It will store any personal data — such as a resident's name or email address — securely on the user's phone and delete it automatically if the app is removed.

Officials also highlighted environmental benefits, noting that better recycling information should reduce fly-tipping and promote more responsible waste disposal.

The Cloud9 app was chosen after comparing several options for functionality and value. The decision was supported by the Executive Member for Environment and the council's Waste Mobilisation Project Board, and funding for the project was approved by Full Council earlier this year.

North Herts Council says a communications campaign will accompany the launch to encourage downloads and explain how residents can get the most out of the new system.

📱 The app will be available to all North Herts residents, including those in Hitchin, free of charge once launched. Keep an eye on the council's channels for the release date.