Armidale Dumaresq Council is expecting to save $390,000 in the short-term through the project.

Council had decided to not to replace the bins in 2012 after a new waste collection contract began.

This plan was aimed at saving money by trying to extend the life the bins.

Council’s general manager Glenn Wilcox said the lid replacement project would ensure the bins could still be used until they are replaced in over a year’s time.

“We are aware that the residential 140 litre red lid wheelie bins are now reaching the end of their useful life and we aim to replace them towards the end of 2015/16,” he said.

“However, the community could help us by notifying customer service of a broken lid, which is the most common failing of the 140 litre wheelie bins.”

Mr Wilcox said Council could delay  about “$390,000 worth of expenditure” by the program to replace the lids.

Residents with broken garbage bin lids are encouraged to contact Council’s customer service centre to arrange their replacement.

The centre can be contacted on 6770 3600.