"Bin crazy" council attacked over plans for fourth bin trials

Aug 19 2009 by Kevin Core, Birkenhead News

A COUNCILLOR has hit out over plans to introduce a fourth recycling bin.

Cllr David Kirwan believes residents are growing increasingly confused by the lists they have to consult before simply putting out their rubbish.

The council has now requested a report into a trial for kitchen waste collection after a motion outlined that it accounted for 18% of domestic waste.

As national recycling targets become more stringent, cabinet members believe they will eventually be faced with a crunch decision to collect kitchen waste or not, so the trial is necessary.

Cllr Kirwan, an independent councillor for Hoylake, said: “The council has gone ‘bin crazy’ in its efforts to emulate the present government's obsession with ratings and targets.

“I now need a checklist to ensure I am putting the right bin out on the right day for collection.

“I understand the need for recycling to reduce waste but we already have three bins and now a fourth is on the way.

“How soon will it be before someone decides a fifth is required to further separate out the waste generated ... and who is going to pay for it all?

“I would suggest they need to be using their time and money far more effectively in order to help residents, rather than making their lives more complicated.”