It’s good news that Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) in Kent will be opening again soon.
Tips across the country were closed in March as social distancing proved difficult to maintain.
Revised guidance from the Government and new measures from Kent County Council, mean that tips in Kent are due to re-open from Friday 15 May.
I know the decision to close the tips caused a lot of frustration and there have been reports of increased fly-tipping in the last month. I raised these concerns with Ministers and the Leader of Kent County Council.
I’m pleased the Government and County Council have worked together to find a way to open the tips in a way which is safe and allows people to get rid of rubbish responsibly.
However, it will not be business as usual. Strict social distancing measures will be in place and a limited number of people be will allowed at any one time. People will need to book a slot to visit, which can either be done online or by phone. Slots will be available to book from Wednesday 13 May. More information can be found here.
Government advice is that people should continue storing their waste at home temporarily, if they can do so in a way that doesn’t pose a risk to their health. If, however, waste and recycling cannot be stored at home without causing risk of injury, health or harm, please book a trip to your local HWRC.
