A DURSLEY resident has criticised the cost of replacement recycling bags.

Wayne Howells, of Roseberry Park, took the drive to recycle to heart, regularly filling his Stroud District Council green bag for collection.

But when his bag became too threadbare to use, he was shocked to discover that he would be charged for a new one.

"The council bangs on about recycling, but when I requested a new recycling bag, I was told there would be a £10 delivery charge," he said.

"I think the charge will discourage people from recycling

“It will really put people off. Even if people want to recycle, for some people £10 is a lot of money.

"These bags don't last forever, my one's falling apart now.

"Surely the recycling collectors, or the bin men could deliver it."

A Stroud District Council spokesman said: “Stroud District Council recycling rates are very high, thanks to the way residents have engaged with our collection regime.

“Costs have increased and the council cannot afford to replace bins and bags free-of-charge, so there is a £10 fee for administration and delivery – not for the bag or bin itself.

“Food waste bins, and beige waste bags for eligible households, remain free-of-charge.

“Also, the first owners of a newly-built home will not be charged.

“Due to the small size of collection vehicle cabs, the collection crews are unable to carry replacement containers with them, so a separate crew is sent out for the purpose of delivering them.”

For more information, visit stroud.gov.uk/environment/bins-rubbish-and-recycling/bins-and-recycling-containers/order-a-new-bin-or-container