As the start date for the launch of North Lanarkshire Council's recycling initiatives gets closer, a huge communication campaign is underway to ensure all residents have the information they need.

Leaflets are being delivered through every door in those parts of North Lanarkshire where the scheme will be phased in first, namely, the North and Central areas, and have inspired a positive reaction from local people.

"We've had a lot of requests for blue bins as a result of the first leafleting campaign," said Councillor Helen McKenna, Convener of the Environmental Services committee. "That shows people understand the proposed changes, and what they need to do to get ready for them. It's a very encouraging reaction.

"The council will do everything it can to ensure every single household in North Lanarkshire completely understands the new collection system. The second leafleting campaign has now taken place, and will be followed by a series of roadshows that will allow local people to meet officers from the cleansing service and ask any questions they might still have.

"We're putting a lot of thought and effort into this communications campaign. That's because we're absolutely committed to making sure residents have all the information they could possibly need before the new scheme is implemented, and are given every opportunity to ask for more information if they want it.

"By keeping people thoroughly informed about the new scheme, we can ensure it provides a very real service improvement from day one."

The first series of roadshows will take place in Coatbridge, Moodiesburn, Airdrie, Gartle, Carnbroe, Chapelhall and Plans from Monday 28 April - Friday 2 May (see table below for full information).

Further events will take place in Glenmavis, Bargeddie, Cumbernauld, Croy, Airdrie, Coatbridge, Auchinloch, Banton, Glenboig and Gartcosh from Tuesday 6 to Saturday 10 May; and in Greengairs, Cumbernauld, Kilsyth, Caldercruix, Condorrat, Calderbank, Coatbridge, Stepps, Queenzieburn and Muirhead from Monday 12 to Friday 16 May.

"I would encourage as many residents as possible to come along to these events," said Councillor McKenna. "They are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the new scheme, and to make sure you're ready for the launch.

"The dates and times of each roadshow are also available on our website, or if you would like to find out about the nearest one to you, contact our environmental helpline on 01698 403110."