January 2026
New Recycling Booking System needs Scrapping
New changes which came into effect in April 2025, included the introduction of a pre-booking system for recycling centre slots, limiting visits to just 10 minutes per drop-off, and additional charges introduced for DIY waste disposal.
I am pleased a review to decide whether the system should continue has been agreed to be carried out by the Council following a motion submitted to the Full Council by Welsh Conservative Councillors. I have also requested the review to include the safety concerns raised around the steps up to the skips at both recycling sites at Welshpool and Newtown.
First and foremost, the introduction of a time limited appointment only system has created significant barriers for residents who wish to responsibly dispose of their waste. It is not only inconvenient, but it has been detrimental for many people, especially those who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the booking system. Most concerning is the potential for an increase in fly-tipping, a real risk since people can no longer access recycling centres in a straightforward and timely manner.
What makes this even more worrying is the fact that we are not alone in facing this issue. Just across the border in Shropshire a similar booking system for recycling centres was rolled out, but after receiving backlash from residents and businesses they decided to backtrack. This shows that such measures can and do have unintended consequences in practice.
I have raised these concerns with the Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, asking if he agreed that local authorities should be making it as easy as possible for people to recycle. The Deputy First Minister shared my concerns.
Wales is already a leader in recycling. However, the measures introduced in Powys risk undermining these efforts. Instead of creating obstacles, we should be removing any barriers that exist.
At a Powys County Council meeting last year, Conservative councillors tabled a motion calling for a review of the scheme to take place. This was agreed, and a review will now be undertaken. This would allow the council to decide whether the system should continue.
Between April – July 2025 I conducted my own survey on Powys County Council’s recycling centre booking system and waste charges. The survey showed strong public opposition across the board:
- 87% of respondents expressed high concern about the new system and associated charges.
- 94% do not believe the Council’s claim that the changes will improve recycling rates.
- 91% oppose the introduction of charges for DIY waste.
- 96% expect an increase in fly-tipping, contradicting the Councils assurances.
- 88% fear more waste will be burned, raising concerns over air quality and public health.
The message from residents is clear, the changes introduced in 2024 are deeply unpopular, and many believe it will harm, not help, the environment. I will continue to press for Powys County Council to listen to local voices and to urgently review these changes.
listen to local voices and to urgently review these changes.