Radical new bins plan gets the nod

A radical change to waste collection in Perth city centre has been agreed, meaning an end to the scourge of seagulls that have plagued residents and traders.

Forty two new “bin hubs” will be introduced for the use of residents, with the pink sack collection service from the street being removed after unanimous approval at Perth and Kinross Council’s environment and infrastructure committee on Wednesday. The new set-up means that no bin bags will be left out on the pavements to be carried away by bin crews, meaning seagulls will be unable to attack bags and leave rubbish across the street.

The number of bins at each hub has been calculated based on each household producing up to 240 litres of rubbish per week, which is approximately two or three bin bags.

Hubs will be located throughout the city centre in convenient locations for the use of residents.

The scheme should also reduce manual handling for the crews to assist street sweeping teams, who often have to be diverted from normal duties to collect bags.

The council will save £3500 per annum because they will no longer have to distribute pink sacks to residents of the city centre.

The total cost of the bins, stands and screens will be £63,000.

Residents are currently only permitted to present their rubbish twice a week which the report says “many residents find inconvenient.”“Smart waste bin sensors” will also be introduced as part of the scheme in all public litter bins in Perth city centre to measure the fill levels and alert collection staff when the bin needs to be emptied.

On the commencement of the bin and stands installation all participating properties will receive a letter giving 28 days’ notice of the change in service, along with comprehensive information on their new waste disposal facility.

Benefits have been proven by successful trials at Scott Street and New Row.