Guernsey waste charges delayed until 2017

Recycling charges have been postponed until 2017

The introduction of charges for rubbish and recycling bags in Guernsey has been delayed until at least 2017.

The States of Guernsey also confirmed waste from the island could be dealt with in Jersey in the future.

It also emerged gate charges at waste centres would rise by 11.5% leading to a predicted increase of around £8.40 a year for the average household.

Critics said the delay and the price increase would lead to residents disposing of waste illegally.

Paul Le Pelley, St Sampsons deputy, said: "Right from the word go my worries have been that there is going to be burning, burying and fly-tipping."

Deputy Scott Ogier said the new "pay as you throw" charging system had been deferred until 2017 at the earliest.

He said it would have been "premature to try and introduce the new collections and charges in 2016".

The gate fee will rise in 2016 by 11.5% at Mont Cuet and at Longue Hougue.

Mr Ogier said the increase was "inevitable" and costs were rising from "an historically low level".

The States of Guernsey confirmed five operators, including the States of Jersey, were on the shortlist to provide an "off-island energy recovery facility".