Waste restrictions encourage recycling initiatives

RESTRICTIONS on who can use household waste sites in Carmarthenshire are having the desired effect, say council chiefs.

The county’s four sites received 300 fewer tonnes of rubbish in April this year, compared with April 2018, while recycling rates at the sites rose by 2%.

It follows a series of measures introduced partially or in full at the beginning of the month, including a ban on commercial waste at the Whitland, Trostre and Wernddu waste sites.

Opening hours at all four sites, including Nantycaws, were reduced by one hour in the afternoon, and residency checks have been phased in.

The residency measure is designed to prevent people living in neighbouring Swansea or Ceredigion, for example, taking their waste to household waste sites in Carmarthenshire.

The overall aim is to reduce the amount of non-recyclable rubbish being brought to the four sites and increase recycling in order to meet rising Welsh Government recycling targets.

Confirming the lastest tonnage and recycling figures at the four sites, Ainsley Williams, the council’s head of waste and environmental services, said: “Changes to improve the accessibility and performance of the household waste recycling centres have been successful.

“We have received positive feedback from residents using the sites, with people commenting on the reduced queuing times and improved safety.”

Two further measures at the four sites – permits allowing residents to use vans to deposit domestic waste up to 12 times a year, and new areas where black bags can be opened and recyclable products removed – are due to be introduced in June and October respectively.

Speaking in March this year, council leader Emlyn Dole said: “While we do welcome neighbours from over the (Loughor) bridge, we don’t welcome their waste.”