Possibility of closures still hanging over recycling centres from September

The spectre of Angus recycling centre closures has resurfaced amid claims the budget makes no provision for the Monifieth and Kirriemuir sites staying open beyond the autumn.

The controversial topic led to a major U-turn by the new coalition administration after it took power following last year’s local elections.

A year-long review of recycling centres was ordered following the offer of a stay of execution for Monifieth.

Reduced opening hours and other changes, including trailer size restrictions, have since come into place.

However, SNP opposition finance spokesman Bill Duff said the budget approved yesterday offered little indication that the “burach” had been resolved.

Montrose councillor Mr Duff said: “The SNP group is not proposing an alternative budget this year.

“That is not because we like or agree with much in today’s budget.

“However, removing any items from this year’s savings would almost certainly see them reappear as savings proposed for next year.”

“As things stand, Monifieth and Kirriemuir recycling centres will close in September. BILL DUFF

Mr Duff said the budget featured a number of “unpleasant measures”, including cuts to winter maintenance on pavements, intended to save £104,000 a year through a reduced service in towns and no action in rural villages.

He said the absence of funding for skip sites in the package meant the issue looked set to re-emerge.

“The previous administration also made a budget saving of £200,000 by rationalising recycling centres,” said Mr Duff.

“In September 2017 we decided to delay these changes and funded this by using reserves.

“However, this funding runs out in September 2018.

“We don’t have a sum in the budget – £135,000 – to support the status quo after September.

“So to be clear to all members, the budget has not addressed this issue and as things stand Monifieth and Kirriemuir recycling centres will close in September as no money has been provided to support them any further in this budget.

“Decisions have consequences, and bad decisions bad consequences,” said Mr Duff.