PLANS to increase recycling rates and reduce black bin bag collection will go to public consultation following Cabinet approval.

At next week’s meeting of Cabinet members officers have recommended that a formal consultation on proposals to change how our waste is collected be started.

The public will be asked to comment on proposals to introduce a weekly “kerbside sort recycling service” with the range of materials that can be recycled extended and the introduction of three-weekly black bag collection.

The number of black bags residents can put out will be three per household (one for each week).

This is subject to the introduction of fortnightly collections for nappies and other “absorbent hygiene product”. Some exceptions will be made on restrictions according to the officer reports.

It adds that the need to replace the refuse collection vehicle fleet will be reviewed next year, as they have an optimal lifespan of seven years.

A review into waste and recycling services was commissioned, in the face of financial pressures, to determine “what service arrangements and fleet would deliver the best performance with greatest efficiency”.

Increased recycling targets have also been imposed by the Welsh Government which Pembrokeshire County Council needs to meet.

The report examines some advantages and disadvantages of its preferred scheme.

Advantages include a reduction in “residual tonnages”, reduced disposal costs, increased recycling and reduces vehicle/crew collection costs.

Disadvantages include identifying who sets out what bag, not suitable for all households or house types, increased concerns about odours and hygiene and risk of increase in fly-tipping.

An implementation plan will also be developed which will include introducing a policy to check bags brought to Civic Amenity sites so people have to sort ant recycling onsite, reviewing the potential for wheelie bins and a communication and engagement plan.

The proposals will be discussed on Monday, November 6 at 10am.