Welshpool tip-booking controversy reaches the Senedd

The controversial system that will expect residents to book 10-minute slots to drop rubbish at Welshpool’s recycling centre from April 1 has gone national, with the Deputy First Minister agreeing that it was not ideal.

Powys County Council says the move will save them around £400,000 over the next couple of years with charges also being introduced to dump certain things like wood and household DIY.

But Montgomeryshire MS, Russell George, shared his concerns on the floor of the Senedd yesterday by claiming that these measures would discourage responsible waste disposal and potentially lead to an increase in fly-tipping.

He argued that placing obstacles in front of people trying to recycle is counterproductive and risks undermining recycling efforts.

Shropshire Council have already backtracked on similar arrangements due to a public backlash, recognising the negative impact it was having after just three months.    

The Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, said in response to Mr George:

“Your point is right, but I think we can't ignore the fact that many local authorities have been faced, in recent years, with very difficult decisions, and we’ve seen, probably, restricted hours or closures of some recycling centres. We want to see (councils) making it as easy as possible, but it’s got to be for local authorities to make their own decision, but I know you will make representations to your own.”

Following the exchange, Russell George MS said: “I asked the Deputy First Minister if he would agree with me that local authorities need to make it as easy as possible for people to recycle. My concern is that Powys County Councils plans are doing the opposite and making it more difficult for people.

“I raised my concerns with Powys County Council last year as soon as I heard about their proposals, and I raised the matter of a potential increase in fly-tipping.

“Surely we should be making things as easy as possible. Introducing an appointment system, amongst the other changes, are a backward step and will make recycling more difficult for residents.

“The Deputy First Minister said my points were right, and that the principle should be that we need to make Recycling as easy as possible right across Wales. I hope this intervention will make the Council re-consider their plans.”