New recycling and waste collection service launched in Dover District

A major new recycling and waste collection service for Dover District is launched today - with the first of the new collections taking place this morning in Deal.

The new service is set to deliver even more recycling for the future, and is now being rolled out across the district. It includes the introduction of a weekly collection of all food waste, together with an improved recycling collection service that will take plastic packaging like yogurt pots, ice cream tubs and food trays, not just plastic bottles.

Dover District Council is providing residents with new containers for food waste, and wheeled bins for the collection of a greater range of recyclables and for the fortnightly collection of the waste that householders have not been able to recycle. New bins are being provided to households across the district as the service is rolled out.

DDC is able to offer the new service thanks to a ground-breaking partnership with Shepway District Council and Kent County Council, which means the partnership can deliver improved recycling, and multi million pound savings for the future.

The launch of the service follows a communications campaign, part funded by the Waste Resources Action Programme, which has included leaflets and service guides, advertising and promotion, articles in the Council magazine, road shows, and a special team of advisors who have been visiting residents.

Cllr Nicholas Kenton, DDC Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste and Planning said: "This is an exciting day for the district, launching the new recycling and waste scheme, and providing a greater range of recycling, as asked for by the public, and delivering the service at less cost. This will help us to raise our recycling rates, reduce landfill, and work together even more effectively to protect the environment."

The new service is being rolled out on a round by round basis. Alternative collection methods will be used for homes that cannot have wheeled bins. For further information, call 01304 872428.