Last chance to have YOUR say on bin collection proposals

A consultation was launched in December by Wigan Council after leaders suggested it was one way of helping them find a further £45m in savings by 2020.

Many authorities already have three-weekly collections of their non-recyclables but Wigan has resisted the change up until now.

The town hall says such a move would save £2m per year and improve recycling rates. But as soon as it was announced residents took to social media to share their concerns.

Many have suggested less frequent collections will encourage fly-tipping and will wreak havoc in the summer months when waste is left out in hot weather.

Posting on the Wigan Today Facebook page, Sue Pownall said: “It’s bad enough in summer with the black bins being emptied every two week, when its hot we got maggots in the bin. Surely that’s a health risk?”

Claire Banks said: “I do not agree with this. I can barely manage with collection every two weeks. Take your cuts from elsewhere because this idea is unacceptable.”

Louise Neafcy said: “I hope the council is prepared for fly-tippers because that’s what will happen.”

Some residents have taken to the idea though.

Stuart Liver said: “You can pretty much recycle anything these days. My recycle bins fill quicker than my black bin. I’m all for it.”

Council bosses say the changes will not affect staffing levels and school crossing patrols will not be axed as part of the plans. The Evening Post has contacted local authority trade unions about the proposed changes but has received no response.

Black bins could move to the three-weekly cycle by September.

Green bins would remain fortnightly apart from between November and March, starting in 2018.

The council has said anyone who has already swapped to slimline bins will be able to exchange for a normal sized one if the new rota is approved.

To take part in the consultation, which runs until January 27, visit www.wigan.gov.uk/yourcouncilyoursay