Event in Chelmsley Wood to explain Solihull's new recycling service.

A SHAKE-up of Solihull’s recycling collections is set to come into force this autumn, the council has confirmed.

The changes will be introduced in an effort to make the service easier for households by reducing the number of boxes, bags and bins that residents have to use.

The current arrangements – which rely on residents to sort through far more materials before they’re put out on the kerb – have previously faced criticism for being overly complicated.

Under the new system, a single brown wheelie bin will be used for plastic, paper, card and cans. Glass will still have to be put out separately in the existing black box.

The simplified service was made possible after the council secured a £2.9m grant from the Department for Communities and Local Government. Arrangements will also be made to improve collections for those who live in flats, although the council has said these changes will follow a slightly different timetable.

• A series of roadshows will be taking place this summer to explain the changes on the way. The first will be held at ASDA, Chelmsley Wood, on Thursday, June 19 (from 10am-3pm). Council officers will also be at Chelmund’s Day on July 19 (11am-4pm).