We can recycle!

Blackpool Council has joined forces with Onyx, one of the UK's leading waste management companies, to roll out doorstep recycling schemes across the borough.

The council says it is 'confident' that Blackpool residents will welcome the partnership, and when new collections are introduced they will provide 'a cleaner, safer and more efficient service' and encourage people to reduce their waste.

"The finer details of the new contract have yet to be decided, but the ultimate aim is to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, and potentially to separately collect recyclable materials from the householder, be it glass, metal and plastic, which can then be recycled," said a council spokeswoman.

"It is also hoped that the current system in place for collecting and recycling garden waste and cardboard - which about a third of the local population can access - will also be expanded and rolled out across the town, where it's feasible."

Cllr Fred Jackson, the council's portfolio holder for urban environment, added: "This is a good opportunity to revamp Blackpool's refuse collection systems in line with developments across the country.

"Many households don't recycle their waste because they do not have easy access to recycling services. However, with the new system of collection, residents will be able to recycle on their doorstep."

Both the council and Onyx admit European and government targets for reducing waste are 'challenging'.

But Onyx's chief executive, Cyrille du Peloux, said the firm was 'delighted' to have won Blackpool's contract, adding: "Onyx is a large organisation that prides itself on commitment to local issues. We will work with member, officers and residents of the town to develop a partnership approach to service delivery."

Exact collection methods - such as different coloured wheelie bins for different types of waste - have yet to be finalised.

The council says it is still negotiating with Onyx, and will also consult with the public.