Dad hits out at wheelie bin ban (From Barry And District News)

Dad hits out at wheelie bin ban

A BARRY dad is up in arms over the Vale of Glamorgan Council's decision not to give his street wheeled refuse bins.

Jeffrey Smith, 37, of Heol Pal, Mariners Point is trying to keep his community clean but is battling the local authority over litter problems.

The fed-up father who lives with his wife Emma, 25, and daughters, Keighley, 4, and Chloe, 1, says he is sick of seagulls tearing open bin bags and scattering refuse all over the road.

He told the News: "I've lived on Mariners Point since January. Within minutes of putting our refuse bags outside, the birds have ripped them open.

"I'm forever picking up rubbish strewn all over the place after they've had a feast.

"I wrote to the council asking them for our street to be considered for wheelie bins. I couldn't believe it when I read the response."

The letter told Jeff studies show wheeled bins are responsible for increased amounts of rubbish.

The bemused customer sales advisor said: "The letter started by saying how wheeled bins are efficient and easier for their refuse collectors, reducing the opportunity for injury.

"Then it went on to say they have an economic and environment impact, resulting in an increase of waste. Are they saying I'll make more rubbish if I have a wheelie bin?"

He added: "My daughter Chloe is still in nappies, and having them blowing over the street is not pleasant. We all have drives here, and could easily sustain wheelie bins."

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesman said: "Since their introduction, wheeled bins have resulted in almost immediate increases in waste arising in all areas.

"There are a range of issues which are both beneficial and detrimental associated with wheeled bins which the council will have to take into account.

"At present there is no policy to change the type of waste container.

"However the council continually strive to improve its Waste Management service and will monitor various techniques which may assist our work."