Big changes are now on the way for doorstep recycling at homes in the Dover, Deal and Sandwich areas.

The countdown has started to the expansion of the district council service and the new scheme will be launched on Monday, November 3.

Cardboard and plastic bottles have now been added to the recycling list of glass, cans and newspapers.

District council cabinet member Cllr Nicholas Kenton from Eastry said: “This exciting news represents a major expansion of the service. Residents have been consistently telling us they want to see plastic and cardboard collections and we are delighted to be able to introduce this.

“We are working hard to keep people informed of these important changes, including changes to collection days, which will help us work together to continue to recycle more and protect the environment for the future.”

Information leaflets, bags and calendars are now being delivered to households across the district.

The new blue bags being distributed can be packed with paper, cardboard boxes and packaging, allowing the black boxes to be used for plastic bottles, cans, glass bottles and jars.

Council press officer Andy Steele said: “To enable collections to operate as efficiently as possible, there have been some changes to waste collection days for refuse, black box and green waste."

For more details about the recycling changes ring 01304 872428 or visit www.dover.gov.uk