RESIDENTS could be expected to separate glass from the rest of their recycling if new plans are approved by Monmouthshire County Council (MCC).

MCC is considering the launch of a six month pilot scheme to bring it closer to Welsh Government’s recycling collections blueprint.

Monmouthshire already has the third highest rate for recycling in Wales at 63 per cent. The recommended target set by Welsh Government is 58 per cent.

Despite MCC being compliant with the majority of Welsh Government’s blueprint for recycling, it differs with its collections. Welsh Government believes kerbside sorts are the most economic and comply with the EU requirements for separate collections.

The pilot looks set to involve around 7,500 to 8,000 homes and is anticipated to take part in the north of the county.

Residents would be expected to separate their glass and put it into boxes. The glass will be collected on a separate day to the rest of the recycling.

Councillor Debby Blakebrough has voiced her concerns over the proposed changes. She said: “Most recycling services are changed due to performance issues. MCC does not have a performance issue. We have the third highest recycling rate in Wales at 63 per cent against the Welsh Government target of 58 per cent and we are the cheapest.

“I support Welsh Government setting targets but then it should be left to us to meet those targets our way, a way that works for our residents.

“It seems that the pressure to change is coming from the Welsh Government who supports a one size fits all approach and does not value local differences and needs.

“As I go around meeting with residents they like their bags where everything is taken away leaving a clean street scene. Black boxes limit how much can be recycled.

“We should stick to our guns and keep our simple bag system despite Welsh Government’s drive to bring in the bulky box kerbside recycling.

“There is a legitimate reason to separate glass and that can be achieved through the bag system. Plastics, paper and cans in one bag and glass in a separate bag. Cheap, efficient and liked by the residents.

“We have the outcomes, we have met the targets, now leave us alone to get on with the job.”

If the trial goes ahead the purple and red bag system would remain the same. Food waste and garden waste, although currently collected together, could also be collected separately as part of the trial. This is to improve the compost quality.

The plans went before the Strong Communities Select Committee last Thursday (28th January) for discussion and will be brought before MCC’s Cabinet at a later date.