Wheelie bins update

I've had several calls from folk re the wheelie bins - either wanting them or not wanting - I understand there will be a review in 6 months but we are having to work with the system as it is now....amazingly recycling rates are already up 40%!!! The system was put in place by the previous administration but it is the current one that is taking the flack for changes - I suspect it would have been difficult to make such a significant change without some challenges and indeed the changes are increasing recycling and saving money. I do hope the few hiccups can be ironed out....

Here's what Councillor Simon Pickering (Green), executive member for  environment for Stroud District Council, said: ‘The first two weeks of collections is showing a 40% increase in recycling which indicates quite clearly that the scheme is being well-received by the vast majority of residents. This shows tremendous commitment from our residents to help the environment and reduce waste costs and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their efforts and embracing this positive change. For years residents have been asking to be able to recycle more cardboard, tetra packs  and plastic and now they can.  The vast majority of people accept that a wheelie-bin is necessary for this extra recycling and are happy with the scheme, whilst a very small minority of residents don’t want a bin because it doesn’t look nice on their property. We’re not asking residents to wheel the bins through their homes but if they have space at the front of their property it is quite reasonable to expect them to accommodate the bin. Research shows that wheelie-bins significantly  increase recycling rates . Other councils have had wheelie-bins for many years and these over time have been accepted as part of daily life. We’re one of the very last areas in the country  to have them. Rolling out a major change such as this is a huge task, and relies on everyone working together to make it happen. It does mean that  some people  may have to compromise a little.  In a time of austerity   and  continuing  national government  cuts , surely the  introduction  an efficient system which significantly increases recycling,  reduces waste  at no extra cost to the council tax payer has to be a good thing.’