Flats above shops in Bromley are to receive recycling collections for the first time, saving households trips to the bank.

The new trial, a council partnership with contractor Veolia, will see the introduction of recycling collections to around 200 flats above shops in Penge High Street, and Queensway/ Chatsworth Parade in Petts Wood.

Until now, residents living in flats above shops or homes where the entrance of the property is straight onto the street have relied on local recycling banks as generally there is no space for recycling containers.

Councillor William Huntington-Thresher, Executive Councillor for Environment and Community Services said, “We have a long and proud recycling record and as a leading recycling borough, we are always looking to do more and this is yet another example.

“Recycling as much as we can and minimising waste are the best options not only environmentally but financially.

“I would really encourage residents to get on board in the trial as we will need to carefully consider the outcome of the trial and whether it is successful before we can consider extending it, both in terms of whether it is operationally and economically viable to deliver the service.

“We are asking households participating in the trial, like all residents, to recycle as much as they can and leave it for collection on their allocated collection day.”

The new service will trial the use of recycling sacks instead, making it easier to recycle.

Following an initial trial period of six months, a decision will then be made upon whether to continue the service and expand it to all 1500 flats above shops across the borough.

The properties in the trial will receive recycling collections each week, of paper and card one week, and plastic, glass and tins the next.

Households will receive detailed instructions and a collection calendar along with their recycling sacks.