ENVIRONMENT chiefs have admitted that plans to close recycling centres in Angus could see more rubbish being brought to Dundee’s recycling centres.
Councillors are considering money-saving plans to reduce its number of recycling centres — with sites at Forfar, Kirriemuir, Carnoustie, Monifieth and Brechin all facing potential closure.
A decision is set to be taken on May 24 on the fate of the five centres.
Councillor John Alexander — convener of neighbourhood services in Dundee, which includes environmental issues — said today that he plans to hold talks with Angus Council on the issue amid concerns that the move will impact on the city’s recycling services.
He told the Tele: “It is a matter for those elected by the Angus population and we will work with our colleagues in Angus on whatever decision they take.
“I appreciate the difficulty of reducing budgets and the views around this contentious issue.
“We will be monitoring the situation and will assess any potential impact once a decision has been made by the communities committee.
“Given the focus on household recycling, we would hope that any impact would be minimal.”
But he added: “We are acutely aware that any potential closures may have an impact upon our own recycling sites and officers will be analysing input into our own recycling sites over the coming months.
“Our focus is on increasing recycling and ensuring adequate provision for the people of Dundee.
“If we believe that changes are required on the back of any decision, then we will look at working with our counterparts on improving the situation. However, I have not seen any proposals and I am sure that we will be able to deal with any matters which arise in collaboration with our Angus counterparts.”
A spokesman for Angus Council said that the authorities work closely with one another and that talks are ongoing regarding shared services across Angus, Dundee and Perth and Kinross.
He added: “Angus Council has seen significant improvements in its kerbside recycling rates.
“Current performance is amongst the best in Scotland and the people of Angus are to be commended for how well they are recycling.
“The recent report to the communities committee on April 12 saw far-reaching change approved without division, highlighting that protecting services through innovation is a priority for Angus Council.
“It was agreed that proposed changes in relation to recycling centres would be deferred to explore what other options there are for the future of the service.”
Dundee City Council closed one of its recycling centres — Marchbanks — in 2013, leaving two remaining sites.