Bin collection confusion for Rochdale Connections Trust

Rochdale Connections Trust was told by Rochdale Council that it is no longer entitled to have their recycling bins emptied. However, following Rochdale Online inquiries, the Council now says the Trust is entitled to collections and has apologised for the "incorrect" information.

For many years the community based charity have had their bins collected on Mondays until this suddenly stopped.

Delphi Goodhew from Rochdale Connections Trust said: “Initially I thought it may have had something to do with the road works for the trams.

“In June, the bins were full to overflowing and we were desperate for them to be emptied.

“We complained about this and the bins were then emptied but they haven’t been back since.”

After complaining again, RCT was told by Rochdale Council that they no longer empty the bins of businesses.

An email from Samantha, Customer Service Advisor for Rochdale Council, said: “Rochdale Council only provide a recycling service now from domestic properties only.

“The Council used to provide a service for charity’s about 2-3 years ago but unfortunately this scheme has now ended.”

As a charity that aims at working with young people, RCT continuously encourages them to look after their environment by recycling everyday items.

Delphi Goodhew said: “We encourage young people to recycle their cans and plastic bottles.

“What are we supposed to tell them now? Throw them in the street?”

However,  a spokesperson for Rochdale Council has now said: “The information provided to Rochdale Connections Trust was unfortunately incorrect and we have apologised to them. We are able to provide a recycling collection for them and as a result have arranged for an officer to visit the premises tomorrow in order that the appropriate arrangements can be made.”