A review of the changes to household recycling centres in Powys has found strong support among residents for the council’s new booking system, while opinions remain mixed over charges for some DIY waste.

The changes, introduced in April last year, included a booking system for visits to the five county recycling centres and charges for materials such as wood, rubble, and plasterboard. They were part of the council’s budget savings plan and aimed to make sites more efficient and manageable.

The review, conducted six months after the changes were introduced, surveyed more than 6,000 residents. Staff at the sites were also asked for their feedback, and councillors were consulted to identify any local concerns. Additional analysis looked at impacts on fly-tipping, garden bonfires, and recycling tonnages.

Results show that 93 per cent of respondents found the booking system easy to use. Around three-quarters said they would be happy for the system to remain in place, although support varied between sites. Positive comments highlighted reduced queues, helpful staff, and a smoother experience at the centres. Some residents said the system reduced flexibility, which was the main reason for not supporting it.

Charges for DIY materials proved less popular. Only 42 per cent of respondents considered the charges fair, with support highest in Llandrindod Wells and lowest in Welshpool. Around 20 per cent of residents had deposited DIY materials at the sites during the review period. The council says the fees are standard practice among local authorities and help cover the cost of handling commercial-type waste brought in by households.

Staff feedback was largely positive. Workers reported that the booking system made their jobs safer and easier, and improved the overall site environment. Some staff noted confusion over DIY charges, but most said the changes had led to a more organised workplace.

Data on fly-tipping and garden bonfires suggest the new measures have not caused a significant increase in illegal waste disposal. Fly-tipping incidents during the review period averaged 37 per month, lower than the seven-year average of 40. Reports of garden bonfires have not increased.

The changes proved controversial when first announced, prompting a petition with more than 4,500 signatures and calls from councillors for a formal review of the scheme.

Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, said: “The review makes it clear that the new system is working well for residents and staff, whilst also delivering real benefits in safety, efficiency, recycling quality, and customer experience.

“We understand that there is always a certain amount of uncertainty when changes are introduced and we are encouraged to see that residents have seen for themselves the benefits of introducing the booking system and are now supportive of keeping it in place.”

A Cabinet report on the review, due to be examined at a meeting on Thursday, recommends that both the booking system and the DIY waste charges should remain in place. The council says it will continue working with contractors to monitor and make ongoing improvements.