Green light for multi-coloured bins

Jan 25 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

A GOVERNMENT-appointed review team has given Wirral’s controversial new bins collection service its approval.

The alternate weekly collections for grey recycling bins and green wheelie bins for other rubbish sparked outrage from some residents. The council also set out tough new enforcement measures, including £100 fines, to punish anyone misusing designated bins.

External assessors, appointed to help deliver best value for money, interviewed those involved in developing the contract. Cllr Jean Quinn, Lib-Dem cabinet member for Street-scene and Transport Services, said: “The review showed the procurement exercise to be a great success. The external assessors spoke very highly of Wirral, and said we should be an example for the rest of the country.

‘‘Recycling rates have increased dramatically to 34%. We’re now the best on Merseyside.’’

The review praised an openness to “lessons learnt” and a willingness to change and develop the service.