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Green-fingered residents are reminded to register for Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Garden Waste Collection Service as an extra collection is announced for the 2022 season.

The fortnightly service usually runs from March to mid-November. However, this year, collections will run from 28 March until 2 December, with householders to benefit from an additional collection, at no extra cost. The 2022 service cost is £32 per green waste bin.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Leader of Â鶹ÊÓƵ said: "The Garden Waste Collection scheme is an optional service offering hassle-free collections. They support people to do their bit for the environment by recycling a range of garden materials, such as hedge trimmings, leaves, twigs, cut flowers, house plants and weeds.

"Residents who use this service have been telling us that they would like to see the green waste collections extended to allow for the changing seasons and weather patterns which have resulted in many householders carrying out additional gardening activities later in the year.

"We have been working really hard to see if we can support residents in this way and are delighted that we are able to run collections into December this year."

The plan to extend this year's garden waste collections was agreed by Cabinet members this week to help maximise recycling of garden waste. The move also supports the Council's community priority of investing in the natural and built environment.

Residents can renew their subscription - or sign up for the service - via the Council's website at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/gardenwaste. Those who register will receive a garden waste pack containing their bin stickers, collection dates and terms and conditions.

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, added: "The green waste bins can also be shared by neighbours. This is a great idea for people who want to reduce the cost for their household or for those who may have small gardens.

"With the service returning this spring, we would encourage residents to get registered soon. It's really quick and easy to do this online."

Residents who do not wish to subscribe to the green waste collection service are reminded that low-cost composting bins are available from the Council. For more information about home composting, call 0845 130 6090 or visit 

Garden waste can also be safely disposed of at South Tyneside's Recycling Village at Middlefields Industrial Estate in South Shields.

The Council also operates a Bulky Waste Collection service for larger household items and the Garden Clearance Scheme remains available to residents for the removal of items including DIY dismantled sheds and garden furniture (fees apply).

For further information about green waste collections, or to renew a subscription for 2022, call Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Customer Contact Centre on (0191) 427 7000 or visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/gardenwaste