THE next phase of a controversial waste collection programme will be introduced this month.

Last summer Flintshire Council’s executive board rubber stamped proposals to do away with the weekly collection of residual waste.

Instead a managed weekly service is to be introduced, with food waste and recyclables collected every week and residual waste and green waste collected on a fortnightly basis.

The black sacks have also been replaced by wheelie bins and the first bin collections will start the week beginning June 27. A booklet with information about the changes will be delivered to affected households.

To ensure collection residents are asked to make sure the wheelie bins are left at the kerb  with the bin lid closed by 7am on collection day.

In a bid to encourage participation Flintshire Council’s recycling team has been visiting schools in the hope of educating pupils on the importance of recycling.

Cllr Nancy Matthews, Flintshire Council’s executive member for waste, said: “We know how much the children love meeting our recycling mascots and visiting schools is a great way to get the message out there about our new refuse collections service.

“Children are always keen to recycle more and waste less because they learn about the importance of recycling in school and that means they also encourage all the adults in their family to recycle.

“It’s so important we recycle as much as we can. The county has to meet strict recycling targets set by the Welsh Assembly Government or we face tough financial penalties.”

For further details about the council’s new service call the waste collection helpline on 01352 703350 or go to www.flintshire.gov.uk/recycling.

- The plans caused uproar when they were first put forward and several councillors said fortnightly collections would be a “disaster” for people living in flats and terraced houses.

But after a heated debate at County Hall last July the decision to introduce the new service was upheld.