Fortnightly bin collections "more environmentally friendly"

Plans to reduce Douglas bin collections from weekly to fortnightly are being brought in 'to protect the environment'.

That's the latest from Douglas Council which says the changes will be introduced in the summer and will be run alongside the existing kerbside recycling scheme and a new garden waste disposal service.

The council said, while the changes will save around £25,000 a year, the main driver is not financial but environmental.

A spokesman said it's all about encouraging Douglas residents to "Reduce, re-use and recycle".

The changes have been criticised on social media with some saying it will encourage fly tipping and lead to overflowing bins. 

Some residents have called for a cut in rates to reflect the reduced service while others have welcomed the move saying it will force people to reduce waste and increase recycling. 

Environment and Regeneration Committee Chair, Councillor Falk Horning said: "As a UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man partner the Council is committed to strengthening its green credentials and encouraging responsible waste management behaviours.

"The changes we are introducing will support the right behaviour". 

Details on Douglas Council's new garden waste disposal service:

• It begins this summer, thereafter operating between February and October.
• All eligible households will be supplied with a 240-litre wheelie bin for garden waste.
• One month after the introduction of the green waste service, the fortnightly refuse collection service will begin.
• Items accepted will include grass and hedge cuttings, leaves, twigs and small branches, bedding from herbivore pets, cut flowers, plants and weeds.