A LAST call to reverse a controversial bulk uplift charge has been made by opposition councillors.

The decision to introduce a fee for residents looking to have large items, such as beds and couches, disposed of by Glasgow City Council sparked controversy.

A charge would bring the city in line with almost every other local authority in Scotland, however, critics have said it will only “worsen” Glasgow’s poor fly-tipping record.

Conservative Councillor Thomas Kerr said: “Introducing bulk uplift charges while the city faces a fly-tipping crisis was sheer lunacy from the moment it was suggested - and the moment it was forced through ... Our streets are full of litter and fly-tipping, grass areas are like jungles and our roads and pavements are crumbling.

READ MORE: Giant rat protest falls flat at Glasgow's Euros fan zone

“We need the SNP to do a full 360 degree u-turn on their failing environmental policies and start by putting real investment into cleaning up Glasgow.”

Labour councillors have also written to council leader Susan Aitken in an eleventh hour plea to put a halt to plans.

In a letter, Cllr Paul Carey said: “Introducing such a charge at this time will have serious and detrimental consequences for the city ... This is the worst possible time to be considering any action which could deter people from making requests for bulk waste pick-up by charging them for the service.”

A list of bulk uplift charges is yet to be published, however, certain items, such as baths, slabs and window frames, have had a special fee added for several years.

It’s understood council officials hope the charge introduction will reduce fly-tipping throughout the city.

A council spokesman said: “Charges for the collection of bulky waste are not new, having been in place for many items for a number of years.

READ MORE: Thousands of fines issued across Glasgow for littering

“The introduction of a new charging policy, similar to the arrangements that have become common in almost every other part of the country, was agreed by members.

“It aims to increase the reuse and recycling of household items – but also create a more efficient, reliable and responsive service for users.

“A proposal to reverse the policy was made as part of the 21/22 budget, in March this year. However, members voted overwhelmingly in favour of proposals which maintained charging.”