COLUMN: Bin the tip Recycling Booking System

Montgomeryshire Assembly Member, Russell George, is concerned that the controversial tip-booking system will be a disaster…

“Many will have heard about Powys County Council’s controversial new recycling policy changes, and I remain deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts these plans could have on residents, waste management, and the environment in our county.

The new changes, which come into effect on April 1, include the introduction of a pre-booking system for recycling centre slots, limiting visits to just 10 minutes per drop-off. Additionally, charges will be introduced for DIY waste disposal. I believe they will do much harm, and the Council could have addressed concerns that they had without bringing in requirements for having to book a time slot. I raised my concerns with Powys County Council as soon as I heard about the proposed changes.

First and foremost, the introduction of a time limited appointment-only system will create significant barriers for residents who wish to responsibly dispose of their waste. It is not only inconvenient, but it could also be a deterrent for many people, especially those who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the booking system.

Most concerning is the potential for an increase in fly-tipping; a real risk when people can no longer access recycling centres in a straightforward and timely manner.

What makes this even more worrying is the fact that we are not alone in facing this issue. Just across the border in Shropshire, a similar booking system for recycling centres was rolled out, but after receiving backlash from residents and businesses they decided to backtrack.

This shows that such measures can and do have unintended consequences in practice.

Recently I raised these concerns with the Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, asking if he agreed that local authorities should be making it as easy as possible for people to recycle. The Deputy First Minister agreed and I hope his comments will encourage Powys County Council to reconsider their plans.

Wales is already a leader in recycling. However, the new measures in Powys risk undermining these efforts. Instead of creating obstacles, we should be removing any barriers that exist.

Welsh Conservatives Powys County Councillors have also opposed the changes and attempted to submit motions to the Council calling for the booking system to be halted. They share my concerns about increased fly-tipping and garden fires.

They have also stressed that a one size fits all approach is unsuitable for a county as large as Powys. Despite the motion being rejected for debate, I’m going to continue working with Powys Conservatives County Councillors plus other Councillors who are also opposing the changes.

I remain hopeful that, with continued pressure, Powys County Council will reconsider its plans and work towards a solution that makes recycling easier for everyone.