NEATH Port Talbot Council’s kerbside collections have recently been awarded Most Improved Performer for Refuse Collection by the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE).

As part of its recycling revolution started last year, the Council has made several changes to collections in the borough, including the switch to smaller wheelie bins and implementing a new and improved recycling service.

So far the changes have made a huge improvement to the service’s performance, with a recycling rate of 60 per cent being achieved to September this year, in comparison to a 48 per cent rate in 2012/13.

The Council continues to reallocate resources from refuse to recycling as waste is reduced and residents are increasing the amount they recycle and compost. Further improvements are planned for the service in the New Year, to keep up with the dramatic increase in recycling being presented.

Council Leader, Cllr. Ali Thomas said, “I am delighted our Waste Services team have won this acclaimed national award. It is testament to the sterling efforts of our residents to make our scheme a success and indeed the hard work put in by our staff who have shown great diligence in rising to the challenge.”

“The changes we have made to our collections have seen significant improvements. This APSE award goes a long way towards proving how successful our new approach has been.”

Neath Port Talbot was shortlisted for the award alongside eight other authorities including Falkirk Council, Sunderland City Council and Wolverhampton City Council.

The award, which included a trophy and certificate, was presented to Neath Port Talbot staff at the awards ceremony by actress and presenter Gaynor Faye.