ASSEMBLY MEMBER Jane Hutt has urged people to give their views on replacing Landfill Tax in Wales ahead of the consultation closing in a week's time.

From April 2018, Landfill Tax will be devolved to Wales and replaced with a new landfill disposals tax to reflect Welsh priorities and needs.

The current consultation, which closes on May 19, is wide ranging and covers a number of issues such as tax rates, compliance, administration and community wellbeing.

Finance and Government Business Minister Jane Hutt said: “The current Landfill Tax is a significant driver of environmental behaviour and along with the Welsh Government’s waste policy has contributed to a significant reduction in the proportion of waste sent to landfill. Its devolution provides us with an opportunity to make administrative changes to the tax ensuring that it reflects our priorities and Wales’s needs.

“The current tax also encourages landfill operators to support local community and environment projects. Through the Landfill Communities Fund over 1,500 projects in Wales have benefitted and I am keen to look at whether and how we can continue to target support to enhance the benefits to local communities with its devolution to Wales.

“With seven days left until the consultation closes, I would urge everyone to get involved and share their views with us. It is only by hearing your views we can ensure the development of a Landfill Disposals Tax which is right for Wales.”

Recent HMRC estimates for 2013-14 show Welsh revenues of £50 million for Landfill Tax.

There are currently 28 landfill sites and 23 landfill site operators in Wales.