Most people in the Lewes area would pay more council tax for better recycling services, a survey suggests.

A survey of 591 residents revealed nearly 70 per cent thought the absence of a kerbside collection was the main reason why they did not recycle more household waste.

The same number of people would accept a higher council tax bill for more services.

And nearly three in ten of those questioned said they were prepared to pay at least £7.75 more a year, the average cost of setting up a household collection service.

Lewes District Council commissioned the report and held forums to gauge public opinion on recycling, waste reduction and the environment.

It showed people in Lewes were more prepared than residents in Seaford, Newhaven, Telscombe and Peacehaven to pay more tax for recycling.

Dr Shaun Dugan from the University of Sussex, who compiled the report, said: "Perhaps this would make Lewes a particularly suitable location for any pilot kerbside collection scheme within the district."

At a meeting of the Environment Review Board, Dr Duggan added: "People were suspicious when told what the cost would be for a kerbside collection.

"They thought it was reasonable and the council should do it, but at the same time were aware there could be a whole host of services clamouring for small increases."

Councillor Michael Parfect said: "You don't get owt for nowt. If you want an improved service you have to pay for it."

The report showed 47 per cent did not know anything about Agenda 21, an agreement signed by world leaders which obliges local councils to come up with sustainable development policies. Residents said more should be done to publicise it.