Merton Council has announced it is to offer its residents free bulky waste collections.

The new environmental initiative will mean that from 1 November the borough’s residents will be able to book a free collection of up to five items once every three months. The free collection includes fridges and freezers. A minimum fee of £10 for additional items covering up to three additional items with £4 charged for the ninth item and each thereafter.

To take advantage of the free collection service, residents must be up to date with council tax payments. Booking a collection can be done by telephoning 020 8274 4902.

Merton Council cabinet member for performance and implementation Councillor Mark Betteridge said: “The cleanliness of our streets is one of our top priorities. Clean streets lead to a sense of pride in where we live and there are many positive knock-on effects from this including reduced fear of crime and better quality of life.

“Offering free bulky waste is one way to reduce the amount of fly tipping in the borough. Every year we spend over £250,000 clearing illegally dumped items from our streets. Providing this free service should see a fall in fly tipping incidents, enabling us to invest in services beneficial to our residents.”

-ENDS-

Notes to editors

Currently, residents pay a £20 minimum fee for the collection of up to five items. Senior citizens and those on specified benefits pay a minimum fee of £10. A fridge or freezer may be collected for a separate charge of £12.50.

The decision is subject to call in by Merton’s scrutiny committee.