THE council could soon be spending £144,000 on new gull-proof bins and other recycling bins if plans are approved.

Worcester City Council’s environment committee will be meeting next Tuesday (January 29) to decide on whether to buy 28 new bins – including a number of recycling bins and solar-powered bins designed to hold more rubbish – following a successful trial in the summer.

Councillor Alan Feeney, vice chairman of the council’s environment committee, said: "As a council, we’re keen to look at new and innovative ways of delivering services more effectively and efficiently.

"The investment we’re considering would help us to deliver high standards of cleanliness and reduce gull scattered litter, as well as increasing the number of recycling points in the city centre."

The solar-powered 'Big Belly' compaction bins would hold up to eight times more waste than standard bins and also alert council staff when they are full.

The bins open using a handle or a foot pedal and are self-closing once litter has been deposited – making it impossible for gulls to pull any waste out of them.

Five non-solar 120 litre bins and six 'on the go' recycling bins would be placed in busy locations around the city centre.