Audit Commission targets Recycling and Street Cleaning

The Audit Commission's findings in Epsom & Ewell Borough Council for the year 2005/6 have now been published. The Commission was clearly unhappy with performance on recycling and street cleansing. Jonathan Lees, Leader of the Opposition and Councillor for Stamford Ward issued the following statement :

"I'm pleased that the Council has retained its "good" status and has scored 3 out of a possible 4, but it's no surprise that recycling and street cleansing gave cause for concern. Epsom & Ewell compared with the worst 25% of councils for street cleansing : my colleagues and I get lots of complaints each year on this subject and it's clear the issue must be given higher priority. Recycling targets were considered "modest" by the Audit Commission. Again, this is no surprise since the ruling Residents' Party has consistently refused to invest in recycling and merely follows central government guidelines, despite our residents having said they want a more comprehensive service. Doorstep collection of plastics and cardboard would be a step in the right direction."