WHEELIE bins could be back on the agenda for Colchester in an effort to boost recycling.

Councillors have admitted they are once again looking at bins for certain parts of the borough to encourage residents to recycle more.

However, even if it did win approval, the c h a n g e would not come in until 2017/18.

Nick Barlow, councillor responsible for waste, said: “We have a group looking at recycling at the moment and a consultation should be going out in aboutamonth, so people can tell us what they want to change and what they like.

“Nothing is being ruled out – and yes, they are looking at things such as wheelie bins.

“But nothing will be changing from the current strategy for two years.”

People living in blocks of flats are also soon likely to be offered recycling collections. However, the council has revealed controversial powers to fine householders who persistently refuse to recycle have yet to be used.

Tim Young, councillor responsible for community safety said: “We threatened to use it, but it would be a hard decision to make. People could say it’s up to them if they recycle or not, but we would argue it’s up to the council.

“We might have to use those powers. We’re not quite there yet in terms of getting everyone to change their behaviour.

“We have offered a lot of carrot to encourage people to recycle.

Maybe it’s time we used more stick.

“There is no time agenda but I think we will be looking again at wheelie bins for certain areas.”