CIVIC chiefs have given a last-minute reprieve to several council tips.

Plans were to close 12 tips across the county, including Casbrook Tip in Romsey, the Alresford Tip in Prospect Road, and Bishop’s Waltham Tip in Claylands Road.

However, on Monday, October 14, Hampshire County Council’s cabinet decided to instead save the tips, with cuts to be made elsewhere to try and fill a £170m shortfall.

Amendments to the decision to close the tips stated that the council should note progress towards a revised and improved waste recycling system, including the construction of a materials recovery facility in Eastleigh.

Protestors outside Bishop's Waltham tip on Saturday, October 12Protestors outside Bishop's Waltham tip on Saturday, October 12 (Image: Kimberley Barber)

READ MORE: Hampshire County Council: Protesters call to save tip from closure

Speaking on the proposal, Cllr Lulu Bowerman, executive member for highways and waste, said: “As I am sure my cabinet colleagues are aware, this proposal has probably been the most contentious of the consultations this year. We have heard the concerns raised by the many thousands of residents who have contacted us, and we have listened to the debates from the universal services select committee members.

“We recognise that closing some of these sites would leave large areas of the county unserved by conveniently accessible HWRCs, and create additional vehicle journeys and inconvenience. The increase in fly-tipping has also been raised.”

Cllr Bowerman went on to say that the county council has plans for the future of recycling in the county,  as well as aspirations to work towards a Hampshire waste partnership with district and borough councils, saying: “It is best to keep our options open in regards to waste collection and disposal, and create flexibility in our systems.”