AN innovative recycling scheme using reed beds to treat waste collected from gully cleaning has been recognised nationally and won a top 'green' award.

Stockton Borough Council beat off stiff competition from Oxfordshire and Warwickshire County Councils in the Best New Idea category in the national LARAC, the Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee, awards.

The scheme, which is a partnership between the Council and Scott Bros Ltd, is an environmentally friendly and cost effective way of recycling waste and contaminated water.

Seven reed beds have been established on former unused land in Billingham and waste from gully cleaning and sweeper operations is treated through the action of naturally occurring soil bacteria which breaks down contaminants in the water.

The water is passed through the reed bed system and Scott Bros have an aggregate treatment facility on site to complete the process.

This system is not only cost-effective but it also helps the council towards zero landfill.

Councillor David Rose, Stockton Borough Council's cabinet member for the environment, said: "The reed bed recycling project is a fantastic example of a positive and innovative partnership with the private sector. It not only saves on landfill but it also saves on money.

"At Stockton Borough Council we are always looking at different ways we can deliver our services. This forward thinking type of work is helping us improve our recycling rates and harnesses natural ways for cleaning waste water.

"Congratulations must go to the team at Care For Your Area and Scott Bros on rightly being recognised in the LARAC awards where there was strong competition including from large county councils from across the country."

The scheme, which was only launched in March, has proved to be an instant success.

Bob Borthwick, of Scott Bros Ltd, added: "This has been an inspirational joint venture with Stockton Borough Council.

"We are delighted the Norton Bottoms Reed Beds are providing a natural sustainable waste treatment for sweeper and gulley wastes, with evolving waste treatment for other waste stream effluents."