I WRITE in response to the editor’s comments in the Andover Advertiser (30 January).

It is incorrect to state that Test Valley Borough Council is now one of the worst-performing areas in the county [regarding recycling]. During 2013/14, of the 13 authorities across Hampshire, TVBC was ranked sixth with a recycling rate of 31.8 per cent and we are working hard with our residents to improve this position.

Mr Sims is correct to say that recycling rates have decreased.

The trend has been occurring in recent years and is one that has been felt nationally. General consensus seems to suggest that the reduction has largely been due to the economic situation, which has resulted in a change of buying habits. Lighter packaging for many products has also had an impact on recycling tonnage as manufacturers seek to reduce costs.

The council regularly reviews all available options to increase recycling rates. These options are examined, not just against their likely impact on recycling rates, but also against implementation and ongoing costs, the impact on residents and operations.

The council’s next Corporate Plan will also include a comprehensive review.

We are correct to state that the Recycling Stars campaign is succeeding.

While the outcomes of the project are long term, early indications show that the work is having a positive impact and the council now has the third lowest contamination rate in the county.

This shows that our residents have a greater understanding of what can be recycled in their brown bins. We have undertaken work to target specific areas in the borough and from this we have seen an increase in the number of brown bins being put out for collection and an increase in the recycling rates.

This approach will be rolled out in other areas over the coming months.

May I take this opportunity to invite the Andover Advertiser to support our Recycling Stars campaign. Your readers can help make the campaign a success.

Cllr Graham Stallard, environmental portfolio holder, Test Valley Borough Council