Rotherham Council is set to introduce a controversial new recycling enforcement scheme that could see residents fined up to £400 for contaminated bins.
The plans, which include a “traffic light” warning system for repeat offenders, have sparked opposition from councillors who claim the approach is overly punitive.
The scheme aims to tackle waste contamination issues that currently cost Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council an estimated £300,373 in additional disposal fees and £886,299 in lost recycling income annually.
Opposition members are calling for better education rather than fines, which could reach £2,500 if cases go to court.
Residents in Rotherham could face fines of up to £2,500 if they put incorrect items in their recycling binsWikimedia CommonsUnder the new system, residents will receive a yellow tag and warning for their first recycling violation.
A second offence will result in an orange tag and a letter warning of potential fines.
Third-time offenders will receive a red tag and may face a fixed penalty notice ranging from £80 to £400.
Residents who dispute contamination tags will have their cases reviewed using the council’s waste management software.
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The council plans to pilot the enforcement system across two areas starting in April 2025, though these locations are yet to be announced.
A public consultation will run alongside the pilot scheme to gather residents’ views on the initiative.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Drew Tarmey questioned the necessity of the policy, noting that councillors had previously been assured contamination rates in the borough were “very low.”
“We’re not satisfied that there’s been sufficient education. We feel that education is the way to solve this, rather than punitive fines,” Tarmey told the council’s overview and scrutiny management board.
A ‘traffic light’ warning system will be introduced to tell residents if they’re doing something wrong
PA
He raised concerns about legal challenges and tracking contamination accurately.
Tarmey highlighted risks of unfair penalties if others contaminate bins or if residents with language barriers struggle to understand the rules.
Independent Councillor Taiba Yasseen accused the council of taking a “sledgehammer approach” with the policy.
The council has defended its approach, with cabinet member Councillor Saghir Alam insisting fines would be a “last resort.”
The council pledged to work with communities to help improve recycling rates.
Sam Barstow, RMBC’s assistant director for community safety and street scene, said recycling data provided “a strong basis” for the consultation.
“These powers have been in existence for a long time. There are a whole host of different local authorities up and down the country that use these powers,” Barstow explained.
The council’s “primary focus” will be supporting residents to understand the recycling system, with improved information and communication.
Members of the overview and scrutiny board approved the policy following assurances from Councillor Alam.