Pioneering waste scheme is a success

Darlington Borough Council's kerbside recycling scheme has been hailed a success after thousands of residents responded to the call to support the system.

The council's three 28-tonne collection lorries have visited about 15,000 homes in the first phase of the initiative, which was launched on September 1.

Glass, plastics, newspapers, cans and textiles were collected from homes in Skerne Park, Blackwell, Cockerton, Branksome, Whinfield, Merrybent and Sadberge.

The scheme enables residents to place materials in green recycling boxes that are left at the kerbside for collection alongside the normal refuse collection service.

The second phase of the programme began this week, with the third and final stage due to be launched on November 1.

Information leaflets explaining how the boxes are to be used have been distributed, and council officials say they have been delighted with the public response, which has seen collection teams working late into the night.

Councillor Chris McEwan, community protection spokesman, said the results of the first month had been encouraging.

"Not only have we had a terrific response to the scheme, but the attitude of the public has been great," he said.

"People appreciate what we are trying to do and have been really helpful."

The recycling scheme is now being backed up by an education programme, with many schools across the borough receiving visits.

Members of the council's environment team have been talking to youngsters about recycling methods and the importance of them.

Coun McEwan said: "We have to build on our early success because it is not about our achievements in the first month, or even the first year.

"We are in this for the long haul, so it is important that we support our work with education so that future generations will understand the benefits of recycling."

Anyone with queries about the service can contact the council's recycling team on (01325) 388777.