THE new system for bin collections in the borough will kick in for most households next week.

Because of alterations to the schedules, extra one-off collections are being carried out in some areas.

Residents are being informed in advance by leaflet drop-offs when the additional bin emptying will take place.

Bury Council has also introduced an e-mail reminder service to alert people about which bins should put out and when – sign up to by visiting www.bury.gov.uk/bincollections.

By the end of this week, residents should also have received their new collections calendar. It will mean: grey bin collections (for unrecyclable household rubbish) will switch to three weekly from two weekly; blue (for glass, tins and cans) and green bin collections (for paper and cardboards) will be three weekly, from four weekly; brown bin collections (for garden waste) will remain every two weeks.

Cllr Tony Isherwood, cabinet member for the environment, said: “We’re all ready to go with the new waste collection system and it’s been good to see that residents have been getting ready too.

“We’ve had more than 6,000 requests for free recycling bins and kitchen caddies, more than 700 requests to upsize free of charge to a full size household rubbish bin, and going on for 200 requests from larger families for an extra grey bin.

“I’d like to thank residents for recycling and their patience at this time.

“I know that these changes have caused some concern, but they are necessary if we are to recycle more and save money that can help protect other public services.

"Studies show it’s possible to recycle around 75 per cent and we know that other areas in Greater Manchester already recycle more than 60 per cent so, with people’s support, we can do more here in Bury to reach these targets.”

Two have already taken place, but there are three more public events being held for residents to attend and receive advice about the new service. The council’s recycling and awareness team will be at:

  • Wednesday, October 8: Asda in Bury town centre from 10am to 3pm.
  • Thursday, October 9: Aldi in Prestwich from 10am to 5pm.
  • Friday, October 10: Bury Light Night from 6pm to 9pm.

To request new or replacement bins and kitchen caddies: www.bury.gov.uk/requestabin.

To request extra bins: go to www.bury.gov.uk/requestextrabin.

For details about the changes: www.bury.gov.uk/collectionchanges-faqs.

Or phone the information line 0161 2535555 or the customer contact team on 0161 2535353.