A decision on controversial plans to overhaul waste and recycling services in the north-east has been pushed back until next year.
More than 2,500 responses were submitted in a public consultation on plans which include altering the collection cycle, reducing the size of waste bins and increasing recycling capacity in Aberdeenshire.
But the draft plan sparked outrage in some communities who argue they would be in a worse-off position if the plans are approved.
Earlier this month, Bennachie Community Council (BCC) organised a demonstration outside the Insch recycling centre, which has been earmarked for closure.
The organisation has argued locals will have to load up their cars with recyclables and travel at least 10 miles to one of the other locations.
Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services committee was due to discuss the results tomorrow and make a decision, but has now decided to defer the decision until the end of January.
Sarah Robinson, community council chairwoman, previously said: “BCC views this delay as a positive move and is pleased that this extra time has been allowed to take residents’ views into account.
“The proposed closure of the Insch household waste and recycling centre has met with strong local objection with around 100 people present at a rally at the Insch HWRC on November 3 2018 to show support for this long standing facility. “Latest figures from BCC’s canvassing of opinion show that over 99% are against this proposed closure.
However the council insists the results of the consultation were broadly in support of the plans, with more people agreeing than disagreeing with the draft strategy by a “significant margin”.
The committee will now discuss the proposals on January 24, to allow extra time to consider the feedback given by communities.
Ros Baxter, the authority’s waste manager, said: “We’re extremely grateful to all of those who took the time to participate in this important consultation and we are now reviewing the results in detail and considering potential amendments to our strategy proposals.
“We need to be able to balance any concerns about the proposed changes with the pressing need to increase our recycling rate and divert waste from landfill, presenting viable options to councillors.
“As councillors will be making a decision which affects everyone in the area it really is important for us to understand as much as possible any concerns people may have and try to address those before moving forward.”