By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Cheltenham’s tip could reopen if Shire Hall bosses decide to take it over and the business case is made for the move.
The spa town’s Swindon Road household recycling centre was closed temporarily earlier this year by Liberal Democrat-led Cheltenham Borough Council.
Borough chiefs said at the time they could not afford the £1m upgrade needed to meet new environmental regulations.
Talk of Gloucestershire County Council taking over and reopening the site was rejected by the previous Conservative leadership at Shire Hall.
But resident Alvin Harrison asked Gloucestershire County Council for an update on the site as the Lib Dems now control the levers of power there.
He said: “Now the Lib Dems have county control, why don’t they reopen it?
“It was so convenient to so many residents it also reduces the unsightly sight of fly tipping.
“Along with easy disposal of many used small electrical goods.”
Nature, climate and waste reduction cabinet member Martin Horwood (Leckhampton and Warden Hill) said talks are ongoing but a business case would be needed before any decision is made for Shire Hall to take over the site.
He said: “This administration has re-opened positive discussions with Cheltenham Borough Council to establish the realistic capital and revenue costs, options and long-term plans for the return of recycling to the Swindon Road site which will take some time.
“We will be meeting Cheltenham Borough Council again shortly.
“A decision by Gloucestershire County Council to take over the household recycling centre site would also require a business case to be presented and approved by cabinet.