Rescue Bid For Green Waste Scheme

Lib Dems on Bedford Borough Council are calling for urgent action to save the Borough's green waste recycling scheme. Funding for the scheme is set to end once the initial trial period finishes early in the Autumn. Despite Lib Dem proposals for a last minute rescue package, which would see the trial scheme extended for another twelve months, the council has failed to agree to any plans for further funding.

Commenting on the situation, Lib Dem Councillor Christine McHugh said:

"It really is the eleventh hour for the Green Waste scheme, without some urgent action the Borough will lose one of its most successful recycling programs ever. This one scheme increased the level of recycled waste by an average of 14%. We cannot allow this good work to be undone. It's vital funding is found to extend the scheme - and found now."

She added:

"Public participation in these schemes needs to be encouraged. Losing the Green Waste scheme only serves to put barriers in the way of further waste reduction and sends out a clear message of on the Borough's attitude to recycling. I know there is support amongst the other councillors and I call upon them to put aside party political differences and support Lib Dem proposals to save the scheme. The green waste scheme provides a vital element of the local recycling programme and we must fight to see it continued."