Montgomeryshire MS, Russell George, has raised Powys County Councils controversial Recycling plans with the Deputy First Minister in the Senedd this week (18/02/2025)
Mr George was speaking in relation to Powys County Councils controversial new recycling plans, due to come into force in the next few weeks, which will mean residents will be required to book a slot to drop off their waste, with each waste drop-off slot limited to just 10 minutes.
Speaking in the Senedd, the MS highlighted that some local authorities are limiting access through appointment only systems, and introducing charges for residential DIY waste, and even discussing reducing opening hours or closing recycling centres altogether.
Mr George emphasised that these measures would discourage responsible waste disposal and potentially lead to an increase in fly-tipping. The Senedd Member argued that placing obstacles in front of people trying to recycle is counterproductive and risks undermining recycling efforts.
Neighbouring Shropshire Council have already backtracked on similar arrangements due to a public backlash, recognising the negative impact it was having.
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.”