New homes buyers should not expect weekly rubbish collections, according to secret Government recommendations to change planning guidelines.
The proposals are contained in a report by Defra which remained unpublished until forced into the open by Parliamentary questions from Conservative MPs.
The policy document puts forward plans to cut weekly collections, shrink the size of wheelie bins and roll out new 'bin taxes' of £466 a year, and recommends changes to planning rules so new homes get a reduced service. These cutbacks should be adopted by all local authorities, it adds.
Eric Pickles, the shadow communities secretary, said: 'This shocking document proves that ministers in Whitehall are behind the cuts to weekly rubbish collections, overzealous bin fines and shrinking the size of household bins.'
Joan Ruddock, the Environment Minister, said: 'With householders producing 100m tons of waste each year, it would be irresponsible not to research ways of reducing and recycling.'
Sunday Telegraph
