In April, Suez will take over services from Veolia, with staff able to move over to the new contractor.

The contract will include a transition to alternate weekly waste collections in a move that it is hoped will cut costs and drive up recycling rates.

Suez will also become responsible for two household waste recycling centres, where residents will be able to recycle a wider range of items, as well as a transfer station.

The council’s cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, Lydia Hyde, said: ‘This administration has made a commitment to rebuilding pride in our city, and I look forward to working closely with Suez UK to help achieve this with an excellent new recycling and waste service that works for all residents.’

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