A NEW recycling centre in Blaenau Gwent aims to dramatically increase the amount of waste recycled in the county borough.

Wales' First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, officially opened the New Vale Trade Eco Centre last week.

Based on the Waun-y-Pound Industrial Estate, in Ebbw Vale, it is part of the local authority's drive to increase the amount of recycling as a means of dealing with waste - without sending it to landfill sites.

Wales met its recycling and composting target of 15 per cent in 2003 to 2004.

But the target figure for 2006 to 2007 has gone up to 25 per cent - and the authority says this new facility should help it to meet that figure.

The centre will accept office paper, junk mail, newspapers and magazines, cardboard, books, green garden waste, textiles, steel and aluminium cans, cutlery and crockery. Scrap metal, car batteries, wood and fluorescent tubes will also be welcome.

It is hoped that at least 60 per cent of the items brought in can be recycled.

Councillor Hedley McCarthy, the council's executive member for environmental services said: "We were pleased to welcome the First Minister for the National Assembly of Wales to open this facility, as it is a great opportunity for many people throughout Blaenau Gwent to help the environment free of charge.

"The Trade Eco Centre sets a benchmark for recycling in local authorities across Wales and will help to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill sites.

"This resource not only offers a means of environmentally-friendly waste disposal but also a sustainable means of job opportunities."

There are four full-time posts at the centre and two social services staff, plus 10 other people.

Clients from the learning disabilities day centres, who had been looking for a more challenging activities, are also assisting at the centre and helping collect, sort and process materials.

Vehicles using the centre must display a permit showing the registration number. Businesses using more than one vehicle can apply for multiple permits, which are free of charge.