Companies who flout waste rules targeted

CAMERAS which can recognise vehicle registration plates are being installed at recycling centres across Fife, it has been confirmed.

However, Resource Efficient Solutions, the arms-length Fife Council company which operates tips on behalf of the local authority, says there is nothing sinister about the implementation of the technology and that domestic users will not be affected.

Chris Ewing, the firm’s chief operating officer, said the cameras would be used to target businesses dumping work waste under the guise of domestic recycling.

It is the latest measure being adopted to prevent the abuse of recycling centres by industry.

It is understood preparations are under way for the systems to be installed at some centres and they could be operational within a matter of weeks.

Keen to reassure domestic users, Mr Ewing said: “The reason for number plate recognition being installed is to identify those businesses using our recycling centres and claiming to be depositing household waste. This will not affect ordinary users.”

Fife Council previously announced it had a major rethink on controversial changes to recycling policy, designed to tackle businesses flouting the rules in a bid to cut costs.

Cuts had been proposed for a booking system for householders with vans and trailers, while the recycling of trade waste was to be limited to just three locations.

However, council leader David Ross said alternative plans are now being developed following concerns expressed by people using the recycling centres for domestic waste.

Top, Bill Morrison and wife Audrey and above, the pair with family and friends.