New Forest District Council confirms formal opposition to Hampshire County Council’s proposed closures of Marchwood and Somerley tips

A FORMAL objection is to be made by the district council to plans to axe two New Forest tips.

The facilities at Marchwood and Somerley, near Ringwood, are among 12 under threat, as Conservative-run Hampshire County Council seeks to meet a forecasted £132m budget shortfall by April 2025.

As reported in the A&T, Cllr Jack Davies, who represents Pennington, recently urged the leader of NFDC to oppose the plans in its formal response to the consultation on the grounds it could lead to an increase in flytipping.

At a meeting of the full council on Monday, members voted unanimously in favour of opposing the plans.

The council’s response to the consultation supports the idea of introducing charges for discretionary services, subject to consultation.

However, it adds the county council should be “mindful” of the potential impact to residents on low incomes.

Reducing the opening days and/or hours of centres would be supported by NFDC only as an alternative to closures.

In a letter to HCC, NFDC leader Cllr Jill Cleary said she was “extremely worried” about the proposed closing of the sites.

She added: “This could have a huge impact on the Forest. We are custodians of this beautiful area, we are responsible for maintaining a healthy living environment [and] keeping all animals who inhabit the forest safe.

“We already suffer from flytipping in certain areas. Please rethink this policy change and do not close these sites.

“You will put a huge financial burden on district councils who will have the costs associated with clearing up illegally dumped rubbish.

“Please look at the opening times or perhaps closing one day a week for some of the savings you need to find.

“Our residents are also your residents – please listen to them.”