TWO local authorities are to scrutinise an unpopular decision by Durham County Council to introduce permits for waste disposal.

The overview and scrutiny committees at Teesdale and Wear Valley District councils are to look into the new permit scheme.

Since December, vans, pick-ups or vehicles towing trailers have had to apply for permits to use the household waste recycling centres around the county. The permits were introduced to prevent commercial waste being dumped at household sites.

However, district councils have complained the scheme has led to increased cases of fly-tipping.

Teesdale council's scrutiny committee agreed to meet representatives of Wear Valley Council to discuss the problem. Sedgefield district council will also be invited to join the process.