Tips on that rubbish tip

11 April 2006 07:44

A new guide with advice on what to take to the tip is being launched at Easter in time for the seasonal DIY and gardening rush.

Norfolk County Council has produced the Know Before You Throw leaflet as part of a media campaign to help people check what they can dispose of in advance before heading to a recycling centre.

There are also tips for householders on looking at other options to reduce and reuse rubbish.

Some of the biggest DIY retailers in Norfolk are supporting the scheme, as well as Oliver Heath, celebrity designer and eco-expert.

It follows feedback from customers and operators at Norfolk's recycling centres that highlighted the need for better information about what can and cannot be accepted.

Recycling centre roadshows will be held at B&Q, Focus DIY and Roy's of Wroxham over the Easter bank holiday weekend, when a team will be on hand to answer questions, give advice and promote the importance of planning waste disposal.

Mr Heath, famous for his designs on BBC's Changing Rooms, is backing the campaign.

"Redecorating doesn't mean throwing everything out and buying brand new," he said. "If you can find a new use for something old, then great - it's cheaper and you can use your imagination. The same principle applies to big DIY projects, so if your kitchen cabinets are sound, why not change or paint the doors.

"Remember not to chuck anything until you've tried passing it on at Freecycle or your local charity shop. You may even be able to make money out of it at a car boot sale.

"And when you're planning your project, remember to consider how you will dispose of the rubbish you create. Don't forget, you may need to set aside a budget for getting rid of your waste and you should factor this in to your overall costs."

Funded by Defra, the campaign is being promoted through light-hearted television adverts with a classic game show theme that encourage the audience to think about which items can and cannot be taken to the recycling centre.

Copies of the leaflet can be picked up at recycling centres, libraries and participating DIY stores and garden centres, or by calling Norfolk County Council's Customer Services Centre on 0844 800 8004.

The roadshows will be held on:

Good Friday, 10am-12.30pm, B&Q, Norwich; 2pm-4.30pm, B&Q, Yarmouth. Saturday April 15, 10am-1pm, Focus DIY, North Walsham; 2pm-4.30pm, Roy's of Wroxham.

To find out more about recycling in your area, visit www.edp24.co.uk/yourrubbish

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