Issue - meetings

Please find attached the Cabinet report on this issue.

Councillor Martin Veal – Cabinet Member for Community Services introduced the report.

Panel members made the following points and asked the following questions:

Councillor Gilchrist asked if a trial had been run, Martin Shields – Divisional Director Environmental Studies – explained that there have been trials across the country. He explained that other authorities have seen an increase in recycling and a drop in landfill. Councillor Gilchrist asked why it was a blanket approach given that different areas have different issues. The officer responded that there does need to be consistency as specialist vehicles are needed.

Councillor Norton asked if people’s preferences will be taken into account. The officer explained that if a property can accommodate a wheeled bin (75%) then they will get one. Councillor Symonds asked about people who cannot lift a wheelie bin and the officer explained that people can apply for assisted collection or look at smaller bins.

Councillor O Brien asked why black plastic cannot be recycled. The Cabinet member explained that pigmentation is an issue and black plastic may have been recycled many times before and be at the end of its life.

Councillor Turner asked if there is a plan for wheeled bins in the city centre. The officer stated that there will not be bins in this area.

Councillor Carr explained that some people leave rubbish bags out all week and asked about enforcement and also about community areas for rubbish bags. It was explained that there will be education and enforcement and that it can be difficult to find locations for community areas.

The Chair thanked the officers and explained that if anyone thought of anything further – the consultation process could be used.