WHILE I can accept that outside the urban environment this may be a more comprehensive service but for those residents in Tavistock and Okehampton it is difficult to see how the new refuse contract is better as portrayed by West Devons Connect. For us it is a deterioration. I have the following observations.
1. The roadshows about this new and improved service are planned to take place long after the decision to change has been taken. What is the point it is a fait accompli! Is this an example of the new open consultative process we have been promised?
2. On a specific point, I assume that refuse (non recyclable and collected fortnightly) will include such things as soiled nappies. Only a problem for us when our young grandchildren are staying. I do not relish a fortnights production in my garage at least we have outside storage! At five to six per 24 hours the simple maths says one will have 78 by the 13th day and that is for one child. is this the improvement we are offered?
3. The previous weekly collection was perfect. Are some councils now beginning to reconsider the re-institution of it following adverse reaction from the public to the fortnightly collection? Am I right in believing that even central government is less enthused?
4. How is it that in parts of Europe I understand that even daily collections may be available the cost being met out of the profits made by recycling companies.
Colin Sansom
Tavistock