PLANS to set up a panel to solve disputes over a new waste collection service will be discussed tomorrow.

The alternate weekly collections were launched in 60 per cent of Richmondshire last October.

A policy governing the service has been published, but council officers say there are occasions when the policy does not work.

It is proposed that in those circumstances a panel - which would include three councillors, the member champion for waste and street scene, and two members of the environment committee - would agree on a solution.

Martin Garside, the council's assistant director for environment, said in a report: "The experience learnt from other authorities is the importance of having a tight and easily understood policy that is consistently applied.

"The refuse collection staff have provided this consistent and rigid approach which has been strongly supported by members.

"However, there can be occasions when application of the policy can lead to a difference of view between officers and residents.

"It was considered that this panel would meet infrequently, but it would be a useful additional resource to help with the smooth running of the alternate weekly collections scheme."

Councillors will discuss forming the panel at a meeting of the environment committee on Tuesday night.