Once again Croydon Guardian letter writers show their great interest in recycling and waste disposal matters.

Even when they do not always agree with actions the council is taking, their keenness in this increasingly important subject is valued.

For the record we have not encountered any increase in fly-tipping since the reduction in opening hours at the Purley dump which is one of the three sites we operate in Croydon two more than most councils.

The misapprehension about wheelie bins is disappointing in light of efforts to inform residents about the new refuse collection method to be introduced from this spring.

Borough-wide consultation showed widespread public support for the new-style bins which will be more efficient, save public money, prevent the messy spillage associated with use of plastic bags and, when used in conjunction with recycling boxes, help to lift the borough's recycling figures.

We hope that careful planning will ensure the switch to the new operation goes smoothly. We will also be prepared to respond quickly to any initial teething problems.

However, there should be no lack of information, with Croydon continuing to update on progress and answer questions on the subject.

Residents will also receive a personalised mail-shot enabling them to choose the size of their bin approximately four to six weeks before it is due for delivery.

Based on the experience of residents in other towns and boroughs where wheelie bins have already been introduced we are not expecting storage of the new, free bins to be a problem especially to people like Ted and Anne White who already use a conventional bin.

And we will remove, without charge, old dustbins that people don't want to recycle for composting or water uses.

Councillor Gerry Ryan
Cabinet member for environmental services