Waste costs (From Penarth Times)

Waste costs

IN RESPONSE to the "Penarth Times" (May 8) article concerning the introduction of wheeled bins for refuse collections, the Vale of Glamorgan Council understands the concerns of some residents associated with the current collection method.

Following a trial scheme in 1993/94, the former borough council decided against the full introduction of wheeled bins, with the then set up costs amounting to more than £1m. There were also increased collection costs.

If domestic wheeled bins were introduced, all costs would have had to be borne by the council charge payers.

It should be noted that the Vale Council currently provides one of the cheapest refuse collection services per head of population in Wales, and does not have the capacity to empty any additional containers within existing budgets.

Any variation from the plastic bag collection system could lead to an increase in the amount of domestic waste collected and conflict with our currently policy of increased kerbside recycling.

As part of this policy, the council is committed to recycling 15 per cent of all domestic waste by the end of 2003/04 and, in order to assist us in achieving future targets, we will be delivering recycling boxes for the storage of glass, paper and cans prior to collection to all Vale residents during 2003/04.

If any individual has any questions regarding the council's refuse collection services or future plans, please contact our Customer Call Centre on 029 2067 3000, or alternatively write to me at The Alps, Wenvoe CF5 6AA.

Miles Punter (Head of Visible Services, Vale of Glamorgan Council)