The Powys Independent Group has written to the council leader this morning, urging immediate action over ongoing problems with waste and recycling collections.

The letter, signed by all members of the group and sent by joint leader Cllr Beverley Baynham, comes after the introduction of new collection routes on March 2, aimed at improving efficiency across Powys.

However, the Independents say residents have reported widespread missed collections, inconsistent timings, and long delays before catch-up rounds are completed. “You only have to drive through the county and there are recycling boxes piled up at the end of people’s drives waiting for collection,” the letter states.

The group says the situation is “embarrassing” and adds that residents’ frustration is compounded by recent council tax increases and ongoing problems with roads and potholes. The letter warns that the service disruption is not confined to one area and is affecting the county as a whole.

As a result, the Independents say they have “lost all faith” in Cllr Jackie Charlton, the portfolio holder for a Greener Powys, and have called on council leader Cllr Jake Berriman to take immediate action.

Powys County Council has previously acknowledged disruption following the introduction of new collection routes, saying crews are still familiarising themselves with the rounds and adjustments will be made as required. The full response from the council can be read in a previous story here.

The Independents’ letter adds to mounting political pressure over the county’s waste and recycling service, which has also been criticised by the Welsh Conservatives.