06.01.14
Weekly bin collections can save money – Pickles
Councils can retain weekly rubbish collections whilst increasing recycling rates and cutting overall costs, the government has stated.
Local government secretary Eric Pickles has published new guidance on how weekly bin collections can be implemented, aimed at encouraging councils to switch back from fortnightly collections.
The guidance highlights examples of good practice in Bournemouth Borough Council, Lewes District Council and Ribble Valley Council, as well as dispelling “myths” around weekly collections and their impact on cost and the environment.
Pickles said: “Rubbish collections are the most visible service that people get for their £120 a month council tax bill. People deserve a comprehensive weekly service in return for their taxes.
“We have exposed 10 false fictions fortnightly bin barons cling to as excuses for cutting services. If councils adopt this new guide as their ‘bin bible’, they will be able to save taxpayers’ money and still increase the frequency and quality of rubbish and recycling collections.
“Across Britain there is a clear choice on offer. The government in England is standing up for weekly collections; by contrast, the administrations in Wales and Scotland are moving towards monthly collections.”
The LGA has not yet responded.
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