Harrogate Borough Council has said it will not buy any more plastic wreaths for its horticultural nursery after complaints.

The nursery, which is in the heart of the Pinewoods, mainly stocks poinsettias over Christmas but also sells decorations.

Some decorations are made with plastic and glitter, which contravenes a council commitment to stop using single-use plastic.

Neil Hind, chair of Pinewoods Conservation Group, wrote to senior councillors and shared his concerns with the Stray Ferret:

“We were surprised to see a range of plastics/glitter decorations on sale.

“We find it difficult to see how these fit with the council’s aspirations on reducing single-use plastic and becoming more sustainability focused.

“We would not want to see stranded costs for the taxpayer but can we request that once these items are sold no other such items are purchased for resale?”

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Alison Wilson, head of parks and environmental services at the council, wrote back to Mr Hind:

“I can confirm we do have a small number of products on sale that are plastic in the form of wreaths.

“However, we would consider this as something to be purchased for use over a number years rather than a single-use product.

“They were provided by our supplier, however I can confirm we will not be looking to purchase any more.”

Ms Wilson added the nursery had recently sourced recyclable plant containers, which will be introduced soon.