Waste recycling centres to reopen next month
Renfrewshire Council is working towards reopening its household waste recycling centres from Monday, June 1.
All of Scotland’s 32 councils have agreed to plan for the centres to reopen in just a few weeks, subject to Scottish Government approval.
Renfrewshire councillor John Shaw, right, said: “Preparations are under way in Renfrewshire which could see our centres reopened and able to receive household waste from June 1.
“Detailed proposals may involve phased reopenings and only specific waste such as household black bag being accepted until we reach full operation again.
“I know from my inbox there has been a huge demand and interest for our centres to reopen but this wasn’t possible until lockdown conditions eased and it was considered safe to operate these facilities during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We appreciate the patience of our communities during this period however Renfrewshire Council will always follow national guidance and put the safety of the public and our employees first.
“Measures will be publicised as to the management and operation of the sites closer to the time. We expect demand to be heavy and we would ask people to be patient.”
The agreement was reached at a COSLA meeting of Scotland’s 32 council leaders. Similar reopenings in England have seen long queues outside waste recycling centres.
Councillor Steven
He d d l e , C O S L A’ s Environment and Economy spokesman, said: “Leaders agreed that local authorities will plan for the reopening of household waste recycling centres on June 1.
“The reopening of sites depends on receiving assurance that this will not negatively impact the Covid- 19 infection rate and will be consistent with national travel advice.
“There will also be local considerations including the need to maintain phy s i c a l distancing for our staff and members and public which will determine whether and to what extent individual sites will be able to reopen.
“The intent behind this decision is to provide a level of coordination across Scotland, to avoid a disjointed approach which could lead to confusion, and to ensure access to household waste recycling sites is managed to best ensure the safety of both staff and the public.
“We are working closely with the Scottish Government and partners on this and are drawing up guidance.”