Liverpool’s iconic purple bin gets star billing at Radio 1’s Big Weekend

A true Liverpool icon is stepping into the spotlight this weekend — and no, it’s not a headliner. The city’s famous purple bin is taking centre stage in a brand-new interactive space at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sefton Park.

Running from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 May, the festival will feature a unique activation around the purple bin called Purple Patch — a chill-out zone where festivalgoers can charge their phones, take a break, and learn more about how to recycle better at home.

Created by local social enterprise Make CIC and commissioned by Liverpool City Council, Purple Patch is designed to get people thinking differently about waste, sustainability and the small changes that can make a big difference.

The space brings together artists and makers from across Liverpool, who’ve transformed recycled materials into something seriously creative. Expect DJ decks made from repurposed purple bins, seating crafted from old tyres, and artwork built entirely from items donated by residents.

Inside, visitors can take part in interactive quizzes and get practical tips on how to reduce waste, recycle more and save money in the process. It’s fun, eye-catching — and all with a clear message: Liverpool needs to recycle more.

Currently, almost two thirds of what ends up in purple bins could actually be recycled. Around 18.9% belongs in the blue bin — including things like plastic bottles, cans, food waste and old clothes that could be donated instead of binned.

Every year, Liverpool sends around 135,000 tonnes of waste to be incinerated. That process contributes to 9% of the city’s total carbon emissions — something the council is keen to change.

Purple Patch forms part of the city’s new recycling and waste strategy, which focuses on education, engagement and creating a more circular economy. That means reducing how much we throw away and finding ways to reuse and repurpose items instead.

After Big Weekend, the Purple Patch installation will be packed away and reused at future events around the city. You’ll find it in the main review field — the perfect spot to grab a seat between sets, hear some tunes, and learn a few things that could make a difference to the planet.

Councillor Harry Doyle, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and culture, said:
“Improving recycling rates is a key priority, and Purple Patch is a brilliant way to connect with people at one of the biggest events in the city’s calendar. Make CIC and the local artists have gone above and beyond — it’s a must-see space, whether you’re looking to recharge or get inspired.”

Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, cabinet member for communities, neighbourhoods and streetscene, added:
“There are small, simple things we can all do that add up to a big impact. By engaging people in creative, practical ways like this, we hope to get more people thinking about their recycling habits — and how they can be part of the solution.”

Kirsten Little, co-founder and artistic director of Make CIC, said:
“It’s a real privilege for us to be involved in Radio 1’s Big Weekend. This space is about showing what’s possible when creativity and sustainability come together. Everything in Purple Patch has been made using donated or recycled materials — from old tech and textiles to paint and tyres. It’s proof that waste doesn’t have to be wasted.”

Purple Patch is open all weekend at Sefton Park, and promises to be one of the most unexpected and talked-about areas of this year’s Big Weekend.

Follow all of Liverpool City Council’s news here.

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