Stoke recycling its way forward

The Stoke-on-Trent City Council on Glebe Street

By the end of 2012 the Stoke-on-Trent council aim to have recycling available to all households in the area.

Nine areas in Stoke have been given the option of ordering recycling bins and boxes since September 2011.

The recycling system has been an issue for several years and seems to finally have an answer.

Kelly Burndred, of Stoke council, said: “We are working in stages around the Stoke-on-Trent area to eventually have recycling accessible everywhere by the end of next year.

“Currently, anyone living in the nine areas can order recycling storage for free. They will receive it within three to four weeks of ordering.”

The storage available includes a blue bin, a green box, a brown bin and recycling bags.

Student Josh Stead, of Copeland Street, said: “I've read that there are 70 recycling banks around the area so it's pleasing to see that.

“It's difficult and expensive for some people to take their recycling to these banks.”

After hearing what was available to him he added: “If they can get them known to more people then more people would recycle. It would be great to get all students recycling now because it's ridiculous how many glass bottles, in particular, are being wasted.”

Not all local residents have found the waste disposal system adequate.

Resident Martha Burgess, of Boughey Road, said: “We ordered our recycling storage boxes almost six weeks ago and there's still no sign of them.”

She insists that although the system is gradually developing, she expects a more efficient service.

Green recycling boxes will be all over Stoke soon

“Our waste bin keeps going missing and re-appearing randomly. It's a shame these things aren't being monitored more carefully.

She added: “I'm pleased to hear the whole town can do it soon. I guess it's a tricky process for the council.”

According to the Stoke council website, you can use the recycling sites at Burslem and Hanford. There are other sites at car parks and locations around the city.