TOWN Hall bosses have pressed ahead with Phase Two of the controversial waste collection scheme despite protests from residents.

They conceded that many householders are upset that their regular weekly collections have become fortnightly, and replaced with collections of recyclable rubbish.

Councillors have admitted there has been confusion and "teething problems" including missed streets, and promised to reconsider individual cases with special needs.

However, they said that the drive to recycle must continue and, in the last week, have doubled the numbers of homes included in the scheme to 28,000. They aim to recycle half of residents' waste, partly to meet tough Government targets by 2006, and hope that criticism will die down once people get used to recycling.

Councillor Stella Smith, executive member for environment and transport, said the scheme required an unprecedented cultural shift from local people.

"That has caused concern for large numbers of residents, but we have also had a lot of positive feedback," she said.

"The scheme is already having a huge impact on the amount of recyclable materials we are collecting and the amount of waste we are able to keep out of landfill sites."

Each week in March, the combination of bins, boxes and green bags brought in 82 tonnes of material for recycling.

The council has carried out 30 "waste audits" with some families receiving an extra grey bin collection. Residents can also ask for an extra black recycling box if they want them. Anyone with problems should contact the council on 253 5353.

Coun Smith added: "The scheme may need adjustments to cater for people with special needs and in special circumstances, but sending the majority of our waste to landfill sites is no longer an option. We are not prepared to waste taxpayers' money on the fines we would get if we sat back and let rubbish pile up."