RUBBISH collections in Basildon could be merged with two neighbouring boroughs.

The project could see a single collection rolled out across Basildon, Castle Point and Brentwood.

Basildon's 166,000 population is more than Castle Point and Brentwood's combined figure of around 156,000.

This has raised opposition councillors' fears of privatisation, Basildon taxpayers being hit hard and the spectre of fortnightly collections.

Basildon Labour group leader Nigel Smith said: "As usual there was been no consultation and we are in the dark about what this means.

"I have no problem in principle with merging collections, but it needs to be openly discussed. Residents should be able to hear the implications for them.

"With its larger population, will Basildon taxpayers end up funding some of the collections for people in Castle Point and Brentwood?

"What about frequency? Are we looking at fortnightly, instead of weekly collections?"

Mr Smith said there were also answers needed about whether it would be privatised, who would fund it and who would be accountable.

He added: "Rubbish collection is a vital service valued by everyone and its future should not be discussed in secret.

"All too often the Tories discuss these changes and the first we hear is when the decision is practically taken."

Basildon Council leader Malcolm Buckley confirmed talks were under way. He said: "It could be we combine all our dustcarts together for the service or a private company operates it. Nothing can be ruled in or out at this stage."

He defended early discussions being held in private.

He said: "It could be this comes to nothing. The council is always involved in possibilities.

"If every single one was consulted over that would take up too much time.

"When something is seen as viable it will be put out to consultation."