I WAS interested in your feature For and against alternate weekly waste and recycling collections in Postbag last week. I am sorry that the person who opposes alternate weekly collections, who, as is often the case, chooses not to reveal their name, re

I WAS interested in your feature "For and against" alternate weekly waste and recycling collections in Postbag last week.

I am sorry that the person who opposes alternate weekly collections, who, as is often the case, chooses not to reveal their name, reiterates the usual myths about a spread of rats and cost saving.

On the first point, our high capacity wheelie bins allow waste to be stored hygienically and, provided families recycle as much as they can, they will have no problem even if they use disposable nappies.

Any family which feels it has particular problems can ask for a review.

On the issue of cost, we have made the point many times that there is no overall cost saving.

We are running fast to stand still.

The cost of landfill tax is rising well above inflation and we will be severely penalised if we do not reduce our waste substantially.

So far, residents have reacted generally positively to the new arrangements.

They understand that they will help protect our environment, help residents to recycle more, and control the rising costs of waste.

Cllr LYNDA NEEDHAM

Portfolio Holder,

Waste and Environment

North Herts District Council