THREE-weekly bin collections could be introduced to encourage more people in Wrexham to recycle, it has been revealed.

It comes as the Welsh Government has set councils across the country a target of achieving a recycling rate of 70 per cent by 2025.

Levels in the county borough are said to be among some of the best in Wales at 65.4 per cent, according to latest figures.

However Cllr David A Bithell, lead member for environment, said there would need to be a change in how waste services are carried out to avoid missing the goal and being handed a large fine.

The possibility of moving from two weekly to three weekly collections for general waste was previously explored during last year’s budget consultation, but was not carried forward.

His comments were made in response to a question from Cllr Paul Blackwell (Lab), who asked whether Wrexham would ever move to four weekly collections for black bins like Conwy Council has.

Speaking at an environment scrutiny committee, Cllr Bithell (Ind) said: “I don’t think I would support four weekly collections personally as I think that’s a step too far.

“What I would say, and I think members will have to consider it at some stage, is whether we do go to three weekly collections.

“Its not about saving money, it’s about making that step change to reduce the waste and increase our recycling.

“I think Wrexham’s fortunate that we’ve never altered our bins.

“Some authorities have gone to three weekly collections with smaller bins than we have.”

Cllr Bithell stressed  no decision had been made on moving away from two weekly collections as yet.

During the previous consultation, only a quarter of people were supportive of the planned changes.

Many warned there was a risk of increased fly-tipping if the proposals were carried forward, as well as attracting vermin and creating odour issues.

Those concerns were echoed at the meeting by Cllr Graham Rogers (Lab) who said: “I’d like to make my position quite clear as that will not be supported by myself.

“To move from what we’ve currently got will increase fly-tipping.”

Another suggestion put forward was for a celebrity to be used to front a new recycling campaign in Wrexham.

It came after Cllr Alun Jenkins (Lib Dem) questioned whether the council would consider reintroducing its ‘Recycle with Michael’ campaign.

Cllr Bithell said: “What we suggested is that we may look at some personalities in Wrexham fronting our campaign.

“Potentially that could be a footballer or someone like that.

“Unfortunately, Michael has retired and it’s time for a change for somebody new to front the campaign going forward.”

Committee members voted to note the work being do to improve recycling rates in Wrexham.

Any possible changes to the frequency of bin collections could be considered later in the year.