Hampshire Residents Have Their Say on Slashing Waste Recycling Centre Costs
Hampshire County Council has kicked off a 10-week public consultation to find out how residents think they can save money on running Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). The initiative launched on Wednesday 16 March amid severe government funding cuts.
Massive Funding Cuts Force Council’s Hand
Councillor Seán Woodward, Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, hit out at the government’s deep cuts.
“The Government’s funding slashes have put us in a tough spot. We planned to close a £98 million funding gap by April 2017, but we’ve just lost an unexpected additional £48 million this year alone,”
he said.
“We must now focus resources where they count and rethink how we manage waste in Hampshire. Running 24 HWRCs seven days a week is no longer affordable. Our taxpayers deserve a sustainable service.”
Possible Painful Choices: Less Hours, Site Closures?
Hampshire currently boasts more recycling sites than many other areas. But the council admits it can’t keep up the same level of service under the new budget constraints.
Councillor Woodward explained the tough questions:
- Should opening hours be cut by an hour daily?
- Should centres operate only on weekends?
- Should some sites shut down completely?
All options are on the table as the council reviews site usage, waste volumes, and proximity of centres.
Have Your Say Before the Deadline
The council urges Hampshire residents to jump in and share their views. No final decisions will be made until all feedback is considered.
To join the conversation, visit www.hants.gov.uk/hwrc2016.
Paper copies can be requested by calling 0300 555 1389 or emailing [email protected].
Hurry! The consultation closes at midday on 25 May 2016.
