DIY-ers could face extra charges at county's tips

Residents who bring large quantities of DIY waste to a county's household recycling centres could soon be charged under new plans.

Gloucestershire County Council said small amounts of DIY waste would still be accepted for free under the proposals but charges would be in place for larger excess quantities.

The free allowance includes a maximum of four visits within a four-week period and up to two 50 litre rubble type bags per visit.

Councillor Ashley Bowkett said the approach was all "about fairness" and ensuring "those using the service the most contribute to the cost while protecting it for everyone".

The free allowance, which applies to residential waste only, also includes a single article of waste no larger than 2,000mm x 750mm x 750mm.

Bowkett, the cabinet member for nature, climate and waste reduction, added: "We recognise this would be a significant change for some residents, but similar approaches are already in place across many other parts of the country."

Homeowner Carol Wilton, from Gloucester said if introduced, she feared the charges would lead to an increase in fly-tipping.

"Having recently bought a house that was not only still full of the previous owners' belongings but also in need of a complete renovation, I've experienced first-hand how difficult it can be to dispose of waste responsibly," she said.

"Most people want to dispose of their waste legally, but if it becomes increasingly difficult there is a real risk that more people will resort to fly-tipping instead," she added.

Bowkett said the proposals have been developed in line with national guidance and are similar to arrangements already in place at many household recycling centres across the country.

"We understand why some residents have raised concerns about fly-tipping, but there is no evidence that introducing charges for excess DIY waste leads to an increase.

"We are working hard to combat any fly-tipping in Gloucestershire and will continue to do so," he added.

The council said the funds raised from the charges would be reinvested into local services, helping to meet the council's budget commitments without reducing provision.

It would also support improvements at recycling centres, including a new, easy-to-use booking and payment system.

The council said no final decision has been made on the proposal and it would be subject to full scrutiny before going to cabinet for a decision.

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