The City of Hamilton renewed its call to retailers and restaurants to apply for wheelie bins.

About 150 bins have been distributed so far this year, after the City announced they would soon become mandatory.

The scheme is intended to reduce the number of rats and other vermin in the streets, and help maintain cleanliness.

A spokeswoman for the City said: “Wheelie bins will be made mandatory in the near future so businesses are urged to plan ahead and apply.

“As an incentive, the City is offering the first wheelie bin for any business free of charge.”

She added: “The City would like to further remind the public that there are policies and procedures in place to control how refuse is collected in Hamilton.

“By adhering to the stated collection times, exercising correct use of the wheelie bins and using general common sense when disposing of trash, a resulting sanitary and orderly city can be achieved that will benefit all.”

The city offers four different sizes of bins as well as blue recycling bins.

To apply for the wheelie bins call 292-1234 ext 203 or e-mail dbean@cityhall.bm or call.