As a full-time carer residing in Falkirk, I am already struggling to meet the financial demands of daily life. The recent decision by our local council to impose an additional £50 charge for garden rubbish collection is an added burden that many of us cannot afford. This comes on top of the existing council tax that we dutifully pay, expecting quality public services in return.

The brown bin service is essential for maintaining clean and healthy communities. Yet, this new policy threatens to discourage proper waste disposal and could lead to increased instances of fly-tipping. According to Keep Britain Tidy, local authorities in England dealt with over 1 million fly-tipping incidents in 2018/19, costing taxpayers £58 million (source: Keep Britain Tidy). We do not want our beloved Falkirk to suffer a similar fate.

We understand that councils face budgetary pressures but passing these onto residents without exploring other cost-saving measures or alternative funding sources seems unfair and short-sighted.

We urge the council to reconsider this decision and find a more equitable solution that does not disproportionately impact those who are already financially stretched. Please sign this petition if you believe in fair public service charges and preserving the cleanliness of our community.