DEAR EDITOR - Your readers will recall that I have previously expressed some sympathy with residents who were concerned about the proposals to introduce a new refuse collection service in the district.

I am pleased to inform them that the long-awaited scrutiny of the new wheelie bin and recycling service has finally got under way (and not before time you may well say).

A small number of district councillors have formed a refuse and recycling service policy working group and it is tasked with looking at all aspects of the new policy and implementation of the modernised service. We have started by reviewing the service policy document, which will govern exactly how the new system will operate and we have suggested some amendments to improve the service to householders.

We have also considered the question of dispensations and how applications will be dealt with. After mailing some 37,000 homes, the council has received to date no fewer than 7,000 completed dispensation forms and officers will analyse them and make contact with all applicants.

Some requests are straightforward and can be easily accommodated - such as single people requiring a small wheelie bin or people with limited storage space. Others such as downright refusal to participate will have to be dealt with in a firmer manner.

Residents must accept that the new system will be phased in commencing March 2004, and also accept my reassurance that councillors are there to help and support them if they experience any problems.

If anyone wishes to bring specific problems or concerns to the working group they should contact the refuse and recycling helpline on 01527 881633 or e-mail recycling @bromsgrove.gov.uk

Cllr Stephen Peters

Hollywood and Majors Green Ward

Bromsgrove District Council