Kirklees to end household glass collections

Kirklees Council has today (20 December) announced plans to end the kerbside collection of household glass in an attempt to save money, following a discussion with cabinet members.

According to the Yorkshire Pennines authority, this move, set for completion by the end of March 2013, forms part of a ‘package of proposals’ that could ‘deliver budget savings of up to £468,000 by 2014.’

This decision will no doubt prove controversial as glass is one of the most commonly collected materials from householders and is also infinitely recyclable, making it one of the most effective materials for recycling.

However, in an attempt to encourage Kirklees residents to do the footwork themselves, cabinet members have pledged to extend the district’s network of community glass recycling sites.

Deputy Leader of Kirklees Council, Councillor David Sheard, announced the plans, saying: “Currently, there are 120 glass recycling facilities across the district, putting 84 per cent of residents within one kilometre of their nearest site. We will introduce more facilities over the coming months so that by the time household collections end, 95 per cent of residents will be within one kilometre of a site –in fact for 60 per cent of residents, their nearest bin will be just 500 metres away.

“Any decision to cease a service our residents have come to expect is regrettable, but difficult economic times, mean difficult choices.

“While we’re reluctant to take this option, we are keen to offer a reasonable alternative for residents, and conclude that providing more community recycling facilities is a necessary yet reasonable compromise.”

Those affected by the changes are to be contacted in February, with all district residents to be sent information regarding local recycling points from 1 April 2013.

Read about recycling in Kirklees