FORTNIGHTLY collections of non-recyclable rubbish will be introduced in the borough from January next year in a drive to increase recycling and cut costs.

Haringey Council will also introduce wheelie bins for weekly recycling collections, replacing the small green boxes that are currently in use.

Food and garden waste will also continue to be collected weekly, with free bulky waste collections for reusable items being introduced.

The move comes after the council signed a 14-year contract with waste management firm Veolia last month, which councillors say will save the borough £28 million.

Councillor Nilgun Canver, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “Under this new service up to 75 per cent of household waste will still be collected weekly with the new bins more easily containing more recycling, helping to keep gardens tidy.

“We recognise that residents will need time to adapt and to step up their recycling so we are phasing in the changes, starting in areas where people are already keen recyclers.

“We will also work with residents to iron out teething problems or address other concerns.”

There will be no changes to the current system for residents living in flats, estates, or in homes above shops.

The changes will begin in Muswell Hill in January, with other areas gradually being introduced afterwards.

Other changes included as part of the new contract will see 450 extra bins installed on streets in a bid to tackle litter, as well as twice-weekly street cleaning.