'˜Scare-mongering has misled public on tips'

That is the message from Sean Woodward – Hampshire County Council’s executive member for environment.

It comes after concerns were raised at a meeting this week that fly-tipping could increase if household waste recycling centres are shut.

Cllr Woodward said: ‘Once we have looked at all the evidence and taken people’s views into consideration, we will finalise proposals on how the savings can be made.

‘It’s important that we listen to what Hampshire’s residents are telling us, consider the facts, and are not misled by any scare-mongering about fly-tipping or extensive site closures.

‘I believe that most people are proud of where they live, and are as keen as I am to maintain Hampshire’s environment and quality of life.

‘This whole process will take some months – we want to give people time to let us know what they think, and we then need to analyse all the information very carefully.

‘We must live within our means, and, at this point nothing is ruled in and nothing is ruled out.’

Opening hours at centres in Gosport, Havant, Waterlooville, Hayling Island and Bishop’s Waltham have reduced.