One of Leicester’s two waste recycling sites will reopen to the public next week as part of moves to lift coronavirus lockdown conditions.
The city council-run site at Gypsum Close, off Troon Way, will open its doors on Wednesday, May 20, with reduced opening hours of Wednesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm only. Freemen’s Common waste and recycling site will remain closed for the time being.
The opening is in line with Government guidance which says people can visit household waste recycling centres to dispose of waste which can not be stored safely at home or disposed of through other methods, such as a dedicated collection.
The site at Gypsum Close does not accept asbestos or chemicals, and is also currently unable to recycle any clothing or other textiles.
Last week the city council restarted its kerbside bulk waste collection service, although waiting times may be longer due to there being increased demand at present.
The reopening comes in the same week as waste sites elsewhere run by Leicestershire County Council prepare to open. Seven of the county’s 14 recycling sites are due to open on Monday, May 18.
Residents are being encouraged to continue storing waste at home if it is safe to do so, and to expect delays at recycling sites if large numbers of people attend at the same time, especially during the first week of opening.
Leicester deputy city mayor for environment and transportation, Cllr Adam Clarke, said: “Although we are in the position to open one of the city’s two recycling centres, we’re being clear that people need to think very carefully about whether they need to go there, or whether they can, and should, stay at home.
“At this point, you should only visit recycling centres to take waste that can’t be stored safely at home. Please continue to use the kerbside waste and recycling services, or if possible safely store any items you would normally take to recycling centres.
“The irresponsible minority that might consider flytipping as an alternative to legally disposing of waste should expect action to be taken against them. You also risk breaking the law by burning rubbish.
“Staff on site at Gypsum Close will be working hard to ensure social distancing is maintained, staying at least two metres away from visitors. I’d ask people to be realistic, and practical when they attend. Don’t bring excessive amounts of waste which will slow down other users; be prepared to queue, and stay inside your vehicle while doing so.
“People should only bring what they can carry, as staff will not be able to help carry waste.
“Clearly it is not yet a case of business as usual, but we hope this is the first step back towards making these services available to people once again.”
For the latest information on all waste and recycling services in Leicester, visit: www.leicester.gov.uk/serviceupdates
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