Xàbia launches “remove and replace” waste container pilot project

Xàbia Council, in collaboration with the waste management company TETMA, has launched an innovative pilot project in the Plaza Celestino Pons to improve waste collection without harming the historical heritage of the area. The new system aims to avoid the presence the containers and rubbish during the day, especially in an area considered a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC).

The square, which is located between the iconic fortress-church of San Bartolomé and the municipal market building, has had a row of waste collection bins ever since the underground containers were discontinued a few years ago and the area has suffered as a consequence through problems caused by rubbish being left outside containers and stains developing on the pavement as well as bad smells.

The “remove and replace” system, which has the slogan “Now the containers will come and go”, will see these containers removed at 3.00am and replace the following evening at 8.00pm so that residents will be able to deposit their waste during the seven-hour window.

If this pilot project proves to be successful, the initiative could be expanded to other areas of Xàbia where local residents have also requested the removal of containers during daylight hours, such as those in Calle San Joaquín.