AN experiment in selling recycled computers direct to the public could result in a new outlet being opened in York.

IT Cubed Ltd has just opened at Unit 206, Avenue C, on the Thorp Arch Trading Estate, Wetherby.

It is based on the same site as Techwaste, the hugely successful 83-employee organisation which recycles corporate IT equipment.

The new venture recycles redundant equipment which has been taken off the hands of large firms seeking to update their technology.

It is re-sold at prices ranging from £99, including VAT, for a children's word processor to £220 inclusive for a Pentium 2 with internet capacity and in all cases includes monitors, speakers and cabling.

Andi Clarke, senior sales manager of IT Cubed said: "If this experiment is successful we plan to open branches in York, Harrogate and Leeds. We have timed the opening to coincide with the run-up to Christmas and it seems to be paying dividends. We have had queues at our counter.

"If as a result we build up a continuing momentum expect to see a branch in York by possibly next June."

While IT Cubed Ltd is operating with the benefit of some Tech Waste technicians, Mr Clarke stresses that this is a totally separate company with its own sales staff.

Since Tech Waste Ltd was formed three years ago, it soared to success with medium-sized businesses as a way of preventing total loss when jettisoning previous generations of computers.

Where in the past they have had to fork out to dispose of the machines, Tech Waste takes it off their hands, refurbishes it or breaks it down into components for resale and the proceeds are often split in favour of the subscribing company.

The future looks rosy for the Tech Waste business when a European directive comes into effect in the next three years.

Called WEEE (Waste From Electrical and Electronic Equipment) the directive will make it illegal for technological waste to be dumped in land fill.