Independent inquiry considered for botched introduction of new recycling scheme

Richard Evans, local democracy reporter

An independent inquiry could be held into the disastrous launch of a council’s new recycling scheme.

Denbighshire County Council introduced its new Trolibocs system in June but apologised after recycling and bin collections went weeks overdue in some areas.

Denbighshire is supposed to collect recycling weekly whilst bin collections are now monthly as opposed to the previous fortnightly system.

The council expects residents to separate items such as paper, plastic, metal, food cartons, and glass themselves to help cut costs. A weighted hessian bag is used for cardboard.

Uncollected waste

But residents are still complaining about delayed collections and uncollected waste, and now Denbighshire is considering an independent inquiry.

Whilst not on Denbighshire’s cabinet, Llangollen councillor Paul Keddie reassured residents in a letter that the council is treating the matter seriously.

“I want to assure you that we are taking this matter very seriously. In response to the issues experienced, we are currently moving forward with establishing terms of reference for an independent inquiry. This inquiry will thoroughly investigate the reasons behind the roll-out’s shortcomings and ensure we learn from these mistakes to prevent future occurrences,” he said.

“Given the importance of understanding the full scope and details of what went wrong, we believe it is prudent to await the results of this independent inquiry before considering any motions, including a vote of no confidence. This approach will allow us to base our decisions on comprehensive and objective findings, rather than potentially acting prematurely.”

Funding

Denbighshire County Council confirmed councillors will consider funding an independent inquiry in September.

A spokeswoman said, “Scrutiny chairs and vice chairs agreed to meet again in September to consider draft terms of reference for the inquiry.

“These terms of reference will inform the scale and nature of the inquiry. Officers will then be asked to investigate the potential costs of commissioning an independent body to conduct such an inquiry.”

Stuart Davies, of Fron Bach in Llangollen, was one of the residents who raised the matter with Cllr Keddie.

Mr Davies is a former deputy leader at Denbighshire County Council and said he was still experiencing problems with his collections.

“I am also not happy. The batteries on my food caddy handle were not taken (this week),” he said.

“My cardboard again has not been taken. My electric thing left on top as per (Denbighshire’s) instructions has also not been taken. It’s been eight weeks and counting, and the scheme is still not working correctly. I repeat my ask for a motion of no confidence!”