I am appalled and disheartened at the knee-jerk reaction taken by the county council in respect of the removal of the waste recycling bins situated in Station Road, Newnham, in response to a complaint on behalf of only three individuals who felt that they caused an obstruction.

These bins were well used by older residents in the bungalows opposite and nearby and by others in near proximity who found the bins convenient and accessible and I am sure contributed significantly in encouraging local residents to support the council's recycling initiative. For the elderly, it was much easier and safer for them to carry a few light bags to the bins, rather than now having an expectation that they will need to seek to carry heavy, two week laden boxes to the kerbside.

Having spoken to many other residents, significantly more than three and many who do not have regular access to a car, we anticipate that less recycling will be actioned. Black bins will be overflowing, fly-tipping could increase and more green recycling bins will be placed out on the street, causing a greater obstruction than that perceived by the Nimby complainants, who live at the bottom of a cul-de-sac of only six houses and where there is a path on the other side of the road.

Given the strength of feeling by other village residents at the loss of the well-used recycling bins, actioned without notification, the local shop has agreed to provide a focal point for a petition to seek to get the bins replaced and the voices of the greater majority to be heard. All Newnham residents and any others who use the bins on a regular basis are urged to sign to formalise their support. I would also urge residents to contact the local and parish council.

– An angry resident of Newnham.