The vast majority of waste and recycling collections in Torbay are now caught up with, with around 1% of households (855 customers) out of 66,000 households still to get back on track for their usual collection date, following the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Between 22 December and 5 January there was an increase of 157 tonnes of recycling compared to the same period the previous year. That’s approximately an additional 35 recycling vehicle loads and it was estimated there was around 20% more cardboard packaging alone compared to previous years due to more people ordering deliveries online.

Waste and recycling services in Torbay are delivered by SWISCo on behalf of Torbay Council.

Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture for Torbay Council, said: “Thanks to all local residents for your continued patience, we are very nearly there and definitely on track for services to be back to normal on Monday 18^th January.

“Thanks to everyone who recycled their real Christmas trees with us as well.”

The recycling of Christmas trees was a huge success seeing 8 tonnes worth of trees being recycled, 5 tonnes more than the previous year.

Most waste and recycling services are continuing as usual despite the lockdown – you can find out more on our recycling pages at www.torbay.gov.uk/recycling