SOUTHEND Council has launched a new portal for people to get rid of their bulky waste.

The new portal on the council's website allows residents to book online collection for up to five large items to be collected directly from their home.

Veolia, working in partnership with the council, has recently launched the new online portal where residents can simply enter their details and choose a collection date. The service costs £7.92 for the first individual bulky item and £5.28 for any additional item.

Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment and planning, said: "Removing large items and furniture from your home can be a problem. Although the council has provided bulky waste collection for some time, we now offer a quick and simple online service that makes booking these collections straightforward.

"The online service is now live and I hope many residents will be able to benefit from this improved service."

Pascal Hauret, managing director for Veolia, said: "We continue to make life easier for residents in Southend by launching this new bulky waste collection online portal. In just a few clicks, you will be able to book a collection and we will pick up your large items directly from your doorstep. Alternatively, you can take them to one of our two Household Waste Recycling Centres at Stock Road or Leigh Marshes."

For more information visit www.southend.gov.uk/bulkywaste or call Veolia on 0203 5676955.