Powys Council risks Welsh Government fine over falling recycling rates

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 17:33 · Archive

Powys County Council's recycling rate fell to 65.7 per cent in the second quarter of 2026/2027, below the Welsh Government's mandatory 70 per cent target.

Powys County Council's recycling rate has fallen below the Welsh Government's mandatory target, risking significant fines. Performance dropped to 65.7 per cent between April and June this year, below the 70 per cent threshold that came into force in 2024/2025. The Welsh Government fines councils £200 for every tonne they fall short of the target.

Although Powys met the target in 2024/2025, joining 11 other councils out of 22 Welsh local authorities in doing so, the latest figures show a dramatic decline. The drop was discussed at a scrutiny committee meeting on 14 October, where councillors raised concerns about the hefty penalties involved.

Cabinet member for legal and regulatory services Cllr Richard Church attributed the fall partly to reclassification of some materials and their definitions. He also cited reduced garden waste collection figures following the extended dry period during the summer months.

How it is being reported

• Powys council could face fine over falling recycling ratesRecycling in Powys fell to 65.7 per cent between April and the end of JuneCambrian News · 16 Oct, 17:00
• Powys Council could be hit with fine by Welsh Government over weak recycling ratesPOWYS County Council is in danger of being fined by the Welsh Government unless recycling figures pick up.County Times · 15 Oct, 13:30

In this story: Powys County Council · Welsh Government · Powys

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