WAVERLEY wants to hear residents’ views on its new draft trade waste policy, which aims to make the borough’s retail areas more attractive.

Throughout the summer the council will consult upon the proposals, which include restricting when businesses can leave their waste and bins out.

If adopted the policy would mean that businesses would only be able to leave their waste out for collection between 6am and 9.30am, in order to enhance the street scene during the busiest shopping periods.

Jim Edwards, portfolio holder for environmental services, said: “No one likes to see overflowing bins and rubbish bags on display, so Waverley wants to work together with businesses to keep trade waste tidied away during key shopping hours and in the evenings.

“We want our town and village centres to look welcoming for visitors and residents both day and night.

“As well as making our towns and villages more attractive, the policy would also lead to fewer obstructions on pavements.

“We hope this move will help businesses to thrive by creating a nicer setting for shoppers and also ensuring visitors enjoy a better experience and want to keep on coming back.

“We want as many people as possible to give us their views, from business owners to residents living in the borough.

“We understand this may have an impact on some businesses but the council feels the benefits of keeping our high streets beautiful will outweigh any issues.”

To view the draft policy and to comment visit www.waverley.gov.uk/tradewaste. The closing date for comments is Friday, August 26.