SOUTHEND residents will be asked for their views on plans for a new recycling, waste collection and street cleaning contract which will begin next year.

The council says the contract will be designed to deliver value for money and savings, while providing a good service.

It is likely to run for ten years.

Residents will be able to tell the council what they think about future plans.

Councillor Tony Cox, Southend Council’s executive councillor for transport, waste and public protection said: “With the support of residents, we’ve increased recycling by 16 percent in just five years, diverting some 12,000 tonnes more waste away from landfill and saving around £12 million.

“More recently, we were recognised for high standards in public toilet cleaning, winning a national award for local authority provision, so I encourage everyone to get involved and help shape the services we provide in the future.”

The consultation begins on January 27 and lasts until March 10.

All Southend residents are invited to give their views by filling in the form at www.southend.gov.uk/wasteconsultation.