A mayoral candidate has pledged to address the matter of single-use plastics if elected during elections on May 3.

Liberal Democrat councillor for Oxhey and candidate for mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor has promised to eliminate the use of throwaway plastics by the council such as straws and coffee cups, as part of his plan to make Watford a more “sustainable town”. 

Mr Taylor will also encourage businesses in the area to follow suit in becoming more environmentally friendly.

As part of his plastic free campaign, Mr Taylor has also pledged to ensure there will be weekly recycling collections, and recycling bins in public parks. 

He also wants to develop public transport services in the area such as improving bus and cycling facilities, while continuing to invest in Watford’s parks and green areas.

A part of his campaign, Mr Taylor plans to work with environmental organisations to regenerate in the River Colne.

Mr Taylor said: “Everyone has seen the harm that single-use plastics can do to our environment and our oceans. 

“I want Watford to lead the way in Hertfordshire on this and if elected would phase out single-use plastics in the council and also work with businesses to reduce their use of single-use plastics.

“However, it’s not just cutting out single-use plastics that will make our town more sustainable. 

“We need to introduce recycling bins to our parks, improve facilities for cyclists and have better bus services. I want to make sure Watford is a town that can manage its growth in a sustainable way.”

Mr Taylor is the group leader and portfolio holder for the Liberal Democrats at Watford Borough Council.