Three black bags a fortnight backed by Swansea council

Swansea council's research found that 95% of residents recycle some of their household waste

Swansea council has approved plans to limit residents to putting out a maximum of three black rubbish bags a fortnight.

The council needs to recycle an extra 7,000 tonnes a year if it is to meet a Wales-wide target of 58% by 2016.

It currently recycles 52% of what is thrown out and from 2016 will be fined £200 for every tonne under the target.

The council's cabinet approved the move on Tuesday and could introduce the new system in April.

Cabinet member June Burtonshaw previously said the council would be "working with residents to introduce these changes over time and we'll also take account of people's circumstances such as the size of their family and any obstacles to recycling".

Swansea council hopes the limit will encourage more residents to use the existing kerbside recycling services and help cut the amount of black bag waste currently being sent to landfill.