Douglas bins to be emptied fortnightly instead of weekly

Douglas Council has announced a reduction in bin collection services in an effort to save £25,000 a year.

The decision was revealed yesterday (Wednesday) in the council's annual budget meeting.

It comes alongside a 3.7% hike in rates, which the council says, would have been higher without the changes.

The council added that the changes will be brought in from April, alongside a new green waste collection service "to encourage recycling and reduce waste sent to the Energy from Waste plant".

It's thought the new service will alternate between recycling and black bin collection services.

Announcing the changes, Council Leader Clare Wells said: "Budget setting is tough, striking the balance between improving our environment and providing fairly for the community.

She added that external factors, such as rising inflation and fuel costs, have had a big impact on council spending. 

The decision has met with opposition on social media with some residents raising concerns about problems such as seagulls, vermin and fly tipping.