More than 800 old vehicles recycled

More than 800 vehicles were removed from Manchester streets last year - and almost every ounce of material from the vehicles was recycled.

Although some were cars and vans no longer wanted by their owners, the vast majority were untaxed vehicles which had not been claimed, and which had been removed under Manchester City Council's powers from the DVLA.

These vehicles are often a danger to other road users, as they frequently have no tax, MOT or insurance, while some have also been involved in criminal activities.

Once identified for scrap, the vehicles are taken to Metro Salvage in Bolton, which makes sure all polluting chemicals, from petrol and diesel to oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, and mercury-bearing components, are extracted and disposed of safely.

The company then strips anything that can be recycled from the car, including batteries, glass and tyres, before the vehicle is crushed so its steel frame can be recycled.

Metro Salvage estimate that about 98 per cent of a car's metal is recycled. Councillor Eddy Newman, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: "These vehicles aren't just a blot on the landscape, they are a serious environmental problem as well as a potential danger to other road users.

"The City Council works hard to ensure these vehicles are taken off the road as soon as possible. All hazardous waste is disposed of safely, and anything useful is recycled."

Metro Salvage owner Terry Walker said: "Manchester City Council has a tough job to clear vehicles which could pose a threat to the public and we are happy to help by processing them."

If you have a vehicle ready for the scrap heap, you can have it removed by the City Council free of charge. Contact Environment on Call on 0161 954 9000 or fill in an online form at www.manchester.gov.uk.

Media contact:

Conrad Astley, tel: 0161 234 4027