By Isle of Wight Observer
Residents will face new charges for excess DIY waste, at the Isle of Wight’s Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs), from September 14.
Households can continue to dispose of up to one 50-litre bag of DIY waste free of charge per visit, up to four times every four weeks. Charges will apply when this allowance is exceeded. The 50-litre allowance is equivalent to a rubble sack measuring 50 cm x 75 cm (20″ x 30″) when laid flat. For comparison, a standard green wheelie bin is 240 litres (53 gallons).
The charges, approved in February, before the May council elections, are designed to cover service costs amidst rising contract expenses, and significant financial pressures on the council.
Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, said: “Most residents only generate small amounts of DIY waste and will still be able to dispose of this free of charge. The changes mean the cost of disposing of larger amounts of construction waste is paid by those using the service most, helping us maintain the service for all residents.”
The council believes the new charges will not increase the risk of fly-tipping, saying on their website: “Evidence from other local authorities that have introduced similar charging arrangements shows mixed results, with many reporting no significant long-term increase in fly-tipping attributable to DIY waste charges.” The incidence of fly-tipping will be monitored with investigation and enforcement action taken as necessary.
Charges also apply to commercial waste, including material from contractor-led work or major renovations. All DIY waste visits must be booked in advance; this can be done via iw.observer/waste-booking or call 823777. Waste should be separated by type, and payment must be made on-site before disposal.
Further details and a list of ‘frequently asked’ questions can be found at iw.observer/diy-waste.
Mal Butler