A recent study reveals Stockton’s poor recycling rates, igniting criticism from local leaders and calls for urgent action.
Stockton: A heated debate is brewing over waste management in Stockton after a study revealed it’s the third most wasteful area in England. This has really stirred things up.
Stockton’s recycling rate is just 25.2%, which is pretty dismal. The town is trailing behind Middlesbrough and the Isles of Scilly. Local leaders are not happy, especially the Conservatives, who are demanding the Labour-led council step up its game.
The council insists that the criticism is just scaremongering. They believe their new policies will help improve the situation. They’ve been working with all political parties to come up with a plan.
According to Hippo Waste, the council collected an average of 415.3 kg of household waste per person last year. The Conservatives are calling this a “woeful record” and are pushing for better recycling options.
In a recent review, the council’s place select committee suggested changing the rubbish collection schedule. They want to collect non-recycled waste every two weeks and dry recycling weekly. Sounds like a solid plan, right?
The council plans to implement these changes by April 2026. They’ll also start charging for green waste collection, which has raised some eyebrows. The Conservatives are worried this will lead to more flytipping.
Local MP Matt Vickers is particularly vocal about his concerns. He’s worried that the changes will make it harder for residents to dispose of their waste properly. He’s calling for the council to get its act together.
Conservative group leader Councillor Tony Riordan didn’t hold back either. He said residents are fed up with the council’s incompetence and that it’s time for a change.
When asked how the Conservatives would handle things differently, Cllr Riordan pointed out that other councils are doing a better job. He believes Stockton needs to learn from them and make recycling easier for everyone.
In response, Cllr Clare Besford from the council acknowledged the low recycling rates. She mentioned that they’re working on improvements and that a cross-party committee has been involved in the decision-making process.
She’s confident that the upcoming changes will boost recycling rates. The council is also looking into better recycling receptacles to prevent bags from blowing away.
Despite the pushback, the Labour-led council is committed to these changes. They believe they’ll have a positive impact on waste management in Stockton.
