Release date: 19/03/2010
By: Wendy Phillips
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or email wphillips@wandsworth.gov.uk
Top award for shop waste scheme
Wandsworth’s pioneering project to clean up Tooting town centre has been praised at a national ceremony.
The ‘time-banding’ scheme for trade waste was recognised with a high commendation in the Innovation category of the Keep Britain Tidy Network Awards in Manchester.
The council made the most of new powers available under the London Local Authorities Act 2007 to restrict the amount of time shops and businesses could leave tatty bin bags out on the pavement.
Waste collection companies have been involved in the initiative which sets two-hour time bands at the start and end of the day when sacks may be put out.
Under the old rules shops and businesses could put their rubbish out whenever they wanted. The new powers enable councils to insist that rubbish is only put on the pavement between 10am and noon and 10pm to midnight each day. Containers must identify the waste producer and give contact details.
The pilot followed extensive consultation with businesses and trade waste operators, which has meant that that the council has not needed to use its enforcement powers.
As a result of the scheme, the quantity of trade waste being collected by household collection services has reduced and roads in the town centre are now free of refuse at most times of the day, including peak commuter times.
“We were delighted to hear of the wonderful efforts of Wandsworth Council in bringing about a huge environmental improvement,” said Phil Barton, chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy.
“The scheme has had a positive impact on the whole community and transformed the look and feel of the area.
“A key aim of the Keep Britain Tidy Network is for land managers and other organisations to work together to improve the quality of neighbourhoods and this scheme has provided an excellent example of what can be achieved.”
Executive member for the environment Sarah McDermott said:
“The scheme has worked well in Tooting because we have had excellent support from local traders. Everyone can see the difference it has made to the town centre. We are extending the time-banding scheme borough-wide, and are hopeful for a similar level of support in other town centres.”
Time banding has already been extended to Balham. It will be introduced in Battersea in July, followed by Putney and Wandsworth in early 2010.
The Keep Britain Tidy Network pools knowledge and expertise among local authorities, housing associations and other land managers. Previously known at the Cleaner Safer Greener Network, the programme was launched by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy in 2005.
The photo shows Phil Barton, chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy, and Ruby Wax with Michael Singham and Mark MacIver from the council at the Keep Britain Tidy Network Awards
ENDS
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Have a look down Valnay Street please and you will see that rubbish is dumped throughout the day. Is anyone enforcing these rules?
Tooting Resident - Tooting
