A solar-powered ‘Dalek’ bin installed next to a war memorial in Buckinghamshire has been removed two months before the end of its trial period after sparking local backlash.

A solar-powered compactor bin designed to collect data about rubbish input was installed on The Causeway in Marlow in mid-December 2023 by the Environment Action Group of the South West Chilterns Community Board, stirring discontent among residents.

The bin, which was installed on a three-month trial basis, was removed last week, two months ahead of the schedule, Buckinghamshire Council has confirmed.

Designed to take up to six times more waste than its conventional counterparts, the bin nevertheless attracted criticism for its appearance and placement next to Marlow’s Grade-II listed war memorial, which dates back over 100 years.

Political journalist and resident Simon Walters described it as a “monstrosity”, adding: “It beggars’ belief that anyone could think this is appropriate. It even has a flashing blue light which reflects on the memorial in the evening.

“By all means, have a rubbish bin – but not where it ruins one of the most dignified and prettiest parts of the town.”

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Michael New OBE, another resident of the town, compared the installation to a Dalek, the extra-terrestrial mutants of BBC’s Doctor Who and accused it of “desecrating the view of the Cenotaph”.

Speaking back in December, South West Chilterns Community Board chairman Mark Turner defended the eco-friendly construction and purpose of the new bin.

He said: “The solar waste bin has many benefits including reducing the frequency of waste collections, hence costs, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and keeping the area cleaner.”

Arif Hussain, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, added: “The bin is being trialled in a variety of places in the local area to see the impact on waste disposal. The location of The Causeway was chosen in partnership with local interest groups and is designed to see if it improves problems with excess waste littering, particularly on market days.

“The results of the trial will be discussed at a meeting of the Environment Action Group. The meetings are open and local residents are welcome to give their views.”