Residents told to stick to rules when skip sites reopen

Warning recycling centres may close again if system not adhered to

Residents have been warned that there will be consequences if they breach rules at local recycling centres.

Sites across the country are due to reopen today, after weeks of mounting frustration over fly-tipping.

However, Fife Council has warned that if people do not adhere to regulations, it could delay the reopening of more dumps.

Amid anger that only five of the region’s 11 centres will reopen today, people were told that if the system is adhered to the others could open in the next fortnight.

People must book time slots for the sites reopening in Dunfermline, Lochgelly, Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes and St Andrews, and no commercial waste, vans, trailers or bulky waste will be allowed.

Ross

Vettraino,

Fife

Council’s environment and protective services convener, said: “The timescale for reopening the other six sites is in the hands of the community.”

Many were disappointed to learn that gates at the recycling centres at Cowdenbeath, Dalgety Bay, Cupar, Pittenweem, Methil and Ladybank will remain closed despite the Scottish Government saying they could be opened from June 1.

St Monans Community Council vice-chairwoman Vicki Salvage said she had listened to many “very angry complaints” since people learned Pittenweem Recycling Centre would still be shut.

Mr Vettraino said: “The decision to reopen only five centres wasn’t taken lightly and was made after consultation with staff, the trades union and police.

“The five sites were chosen because they are the ones that present the least challenges relative to social distancing and traffic management.”

Mr Vettraino said rules imposed would maintain social distancing and help to manage traffic.

He said: “If, however, people turn up without a booking not only will they be turned away but they will complicate the management of the traffic, which is there legitimately.

“Based on the experience that will be gained from reopening the five centres plans will be developed to open the other six.

“If the booking system is respected there won’t be a problem and I am confident that the other six sites can be opened within a couple of weeks.”

Perth and Kinross is also anticipating an influx of traffic to its recycling centres. Temporary measures will be put in place at sites around the region, including a ban on southbound traffic on Friarton Road – between Edinburgh Road and Cromlix Road.

A spokesman said that if regulations are not adhered to, the sites could be closed again.

Pictures: Mhairi Edwards. Social distancing rules will be in place at Friarton Recycling Centre, Perth.