Pressure mounts over controversial recycling booking system

Powys County Council is facing mounting pressure following the release of survey results that confirm widespread public opposition to its controversial new recycling system. 

The findings, compiled by Senedd Member Russell George, show that residents are deeply unhappy with changes introduced earlier this year.

The new rules, which came into effect on 1st April, require residents to book appointments at recycling centres and restrict visits to just ten minutes. The introduction of charges for DIY waste has proved particularly unpopular amongst local communities.

The survey results paint a stark picture of public sentiment. An overwhelming 96 per cent of respondents believe the changes will lead to increased fly-tipping, whilst 91 per cent oppose the new charges altogether. Perhaps most damning for the council's environmental credentials, 94 per cent do not believe the changes will actually improve recycling rates.

Environmental concerns feature prominently in the findings, with 88 per cent of people worried that more garden waste will be burned as a result of the restrictions, potentially damaging air quality. Overall, 87 per cent of respondents expressed high levels of concern about the new system.

Mr George described the public message as "crystal clear," arguing that the scheme is "deeply unpopular and counterproductive." He warned that the appointment-only system creates "significant barriers for residents trying to dispose of their waste responsibly" and risks deterring people from using the facilities properly.

The survey results have strengthened the hand of local Conservative councillors who successfully pushed for a formal review of the scheme last month. County Councillor Amanda Jenner of Trelystan and Trewern, who supported the motion, said the findings confirmed what she had been hearing from constituents across her ward.

"The one-size-fits-all approach is completely unsuitable for a rural county like Powys," Councillor Jenner stated. She welcomed the upcoming review and pledged to continue ensuring that local voices are heard in the decision-making process.

The council has already committed to conducting a formal review of the recycling system this autumn, following the successful motion put forward by opposition councillors. The survey results now provide concrete evidence of public dissatisfaction that the council will need to address during this review process.

The timing of the survey release adds significant political pressure on the ruling administration, which must now respond to clear evidence that the policy lacks public support. With concerns ranging from environmental impact to practical accessibility, the council faces difficult decisions about whether to modify or potentially reverse the controversial changes.

The review, expected to take place over the coming months, will be closely watched by residents who have made their opposition to the current system abundantly clear through their survey responses.