PEOPLE in Worcestershire are “being let down” by stalling recycling rates, according to a leading County Hall politician.

Councillor Tom Wells, the deputy leader of Worcestershire’s Liberal Democrats, has called for an “open discussion” with the public over how to improve it.

As your Worcester News revealed on Thursday, the percentage of household waste recycled from homes has started to fall in parts of the county.

And Coun Wells said a series of regular forums, consultations and open meetings should take place with householders over how to tackle the problem.

It comes amid concerns over rocketing landfill taxes, which hit £9.8 million across Worcestershire and Herefordshire last year.

If more rubbish was recycled rather than being buried in the ground, it would save the county money.

Areas where recycling rates have dropped include Malvern Hills and Wychavon, while in Worcester it has remained static at 36.2 per cent of all household rubbish.

Coun Wells said: “We are letting the people of Worcestershire down on this and it’s not good enough.

“The problem with the situation we are facing, is that this county’s recycling rates have plateaued out at a time when we are facing high landfill taxes.

“Money from Worcestershire’s taxpayers is going back to the Government to pay for these taxes and I don’t think that is right.

“The county council has got to take a lead on this so we can work with people for new solutions to get it better.

“The authority already does a lot of work with schools but we’ve got to reach out to the wider public and take them with us, otherwise we’ve no chance. We need an open conversation, more meetings with the public and a fresh approach.”

His comments have been taken on board by the Conservative leadership, which says efforts are already underway to get the figures rising again.

Councillor Anthony Blagg, the cabinet member responsible for waste, said: “Some people have a public conscience and want to recycle a lot, but for most it’s just about offering a service which is simple.

“This is why across the districts we’ve got the one recycling bin which people can fill, before it gets taken away and sorted through.

“It has tailed away in other parts of the country too, but those people saying we need to educate people more and get out into the community are right. We have a new team member who will be working with district councils on an ‘education scheme’ so we can inform people better.”