CASTLE Point Council is considering bringing in wheelie bins in a shake-up of waste collections in the borough - mimicking moves made in both Southend and Basildon.

The council has launched a public consultation into proposed changes to bin collections after facing "significant challenges and pressure to transform".

Last year Basildon Council replaced waste sacks with wheelie bins for general waste, while Southend Council is set to do the same thing under a new waste contract coming into play next year.

Castle Point Council has launched a consultation with options included introducing wheeled bins for both non-recyclable waste and dry mixed recyclable waste.

Michael Fuller, councillor for the environment, said: “Developing a new waste strategy will enable us to work more effectively with partners to deliver sustainable waste services.

"We strive to deliver an efficient service and are always seeking innovative solutions that can help us transform the way waste and recycling is managed in Castle Point.

“Through the consultation, we will explore residents’ views on important issues like how we collect our waste, how we can improve recycling rates and minimise waste, as well as reduce cost and reduce our carbon footprint.

"Since the consultation launched last week we’ve already heard from over 1,200 residents, which is a great response, and demonstrates the interest in this subject. We hope as many residents as possible will take the chance to comment on this important issue.”

The standard size for a non-recyclable waste bin being considered is a 180-litre bin which will hold the equivalent of three to four waste sacks.

For recycling, it’s looking at a 240-litre bin which will hold the equivalent of five to six sacks of dry mixed recycling.

Larger bins could be available for bigger households and smaller bins, or continued sack collections may be an option for those unable to store a wheeled bin and bins.

The council’s consultation site says: “We strive to deliver an efficient service and are always seeking innovative solutions that can help us transform the way waste and recycling is managed in Castle Point. Our five key principles: improving recycling rates and minimising waste, educating residents, starting with our young people, partnership working, reducing cost for our taxpayers and reducing our carbon footprint. We want to hear your views on these priorities.”

The council’s consultation runs until November 4.