Tories introduce a Green bin tax

Last summer WC consulted on the future of the green waste service, offering three options:

1. A three month suspension of the kerbside garden waste service with no collections taking place in December, January and February.

2. A five month suspension of the kerbside garden waste service with no collections taking place in November, December, January, February and March.

3. To introduce a chargeable kerbside garden waste collection service instead of the current service

Currently, only 10 percent of green waste is collected between December and February, and 25 percent is collected between November and March. The third option would see a charge of £35 per bin per year.

Here are the results:

Option 1: 9492 votes

Option 2: 4716

Option 3: 893

None of the above: 416

A clear result, with only 6% supporting a paid-for service, and 92% supporting a winter break.

So what is the Tory administration doing? You've guessed - after the extensive and expensive consultation they're taking the option almost nobody wanted, and as of April if you want a green bin collection you'll have to pay for it. They are also increasing the cost - it's more likely to be set at £40 rather than the £35 mentioned in the consultation.

Speaking at another 'consultation' event in Trowbridge WC leader Jane Scott blamed the government. "I'm really, really sorry," she said.