Thanet launches leaf wheelie bin scheme

Volunteer homeowners in Broadstairs are being issued with wheelie bins for their autumn leaf fall

People living in Broadstairs are being offered dedicated wheelie bins to collect 2024's autumn leaf fall.

Thanet District Council is offering the service as part of a focus on leaf composting.

The local authority's cleaning teams began collecting leaves separately from other street litter last year.

The council said this meant nine tonnes of leaves being sent for composting rather than into landfill.

Council leader Rick Everitt said: “Our cleansing staff are going to continue to do all they can to keep the footways clear but working with residents to support this is new for us and I’m excited for our local communities to be involved in this solution.

"The local volunteer groups that do litter picks all year round are a vital part of our community and we value all that they do to help keep Thanet looking its best.”

In 2023 Thanet District Council collected nine tonnes of leaves from its streets

All the residents taking part in the trial are volunteers, and the wheelie bins will be returned to the council at the end of autumn.

The council said the scheme may be rolled out across Thanet depending on the success of this trial.