Anger over 'ridiculous' trade waste price hike

Ian Bowyer said he would stop using the service as he could not justify the cost

A council has been criticised for "ridiculous" changes to the cost of dumping trade waste which, it has been claimed, could lead to fly-tipping.

From 1 November, Norfolk County Council will charge based on the size of vehicle and type of waste instead of per 100-litre bag.

Ian Bowyer, who offers gardening and house clearance, said he would stop doing the latter because he had calculated a van full of mixed waste would set him back £350, up from £30 to £50.

The council said its new system allowed for a "fairer and more consistent approach that covers the costs of trade waste disposal in Norfolk".

Under the scheme, costs range from the cheapest load of £10.50 for a mini van half-full of recyclables such as glass or cardboard, to a maximum of £469 for a Luton van full of a mixed load.

Garden waste currently costs £5.50 per 100 litre bag to dispose of but will range from £25.50 up to £280, depending on the size of van and whether it is under or over 50% full.

All trips have to be booked in advance.

Mr Bowyer said disposing of house clearance waste was no longer viable.

"It's ridiculous on top of what I would charge, you are looking at £500-plus and I won't do it; I can't pass that on to the customer," he said.

"Garden waste would cost me £200 a van, from £30, and luckily I've found a company that will still do it for £30."

'Responsible option'

Asked about concerns about legitimate disposal, he said customers were bound to seek out cheaper options.

"I'll get a message for a quote, then they'll say, 'so and so will do it for £50', because they can't afford any other option - and I guarantee it won't go to the tip [with the cheaper trader].

"I'm worrying for the guys who just do waste clearances; some have said they might have to shut their doors.

"Luckily I can back myself up with the gardening."

The council added: "Our trade waste service continues to deliver a responsible option for traders to dispose of their waste.

"There are also commercial alternatives for different types of waste and different businesses.

"We will also be introducing our new booking system in November, which will help to reduce congestion, reduce waiting times, and save money by spreading customer visits more evenly across our opening hours.”