New recycling scheme collects extra 65 tonnes across East Devon

East Devon’s new recycling scheme has collected an extra 65 tonnes compared to the same period last year.

The district council rolled out the scheme to 51,000 households on Monday following successful trials in Exmouth and Feniton.

Contactors SUEZ collected 81.4 tonnes from Sidmouth and Ottery St Mary residents on Tuesday, an increase of 25 tonnes from 2016.

The council also saw increases in Honiton, Axminster, Beer and Seaton which increased its collection by 20 tonnes compared to the same period last year.

Councillor Tom Wright, the council’s portfolio holder for the environment, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the high level of participation from our residents on the collection days so far and I would like to personally thank everyone who has taken the time and effort to bring about such a great start to the service. Our residents are doing such a truly excellent job and really getting on board with the new system.”

He asked residents to separate their recycling into the correct sacks to help collection crews on their rounds.

A council spokeswoman added: “Residents are being reminded to refer carefully to the information they have been sent to ensure they are aware of their collection days, what they can recycle and how to separate the items between their box and new sack.”