No re-opening date for South Shield's recycling centre after coronavirus lockdown closure

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said local authorities should open their gates in coming weeks in an announcement to the House of Commons.

He asked councils to ‘safely plan the organised opening of household waste collection sites - in line with social distancing guidelines - as a priority,’ and said guidance would be issued soon.

The council had planned to extend its recycling scheme this month with the introduction of new bottle and can bins.

But South Tyneside’s Recycling Village and Recycling Shop, on the Middlefields Industrial Estate in South Shields, are both closed until further notice in line with the national rules on minimising public contact.

 A council spokesperson confirmed the authority was looking at ways to reopen the centre while maintaining social distancing rules for users and staff: “South Tyneside Council’s Cabinet has been updated that Recycling Village remains closed at this time in line with the Government’s advice on social distancing, staying at home and avoiding all but essential travel,” she said.

“However, we are looking at options to reopen safely and have pressed for further guidance from the government on the matter. We will update residents of any changes. We thank residents for their patience at this time.

“Whilst the Recycling Village is closed, the Council is still operating a number of key front line waste collection services and this includes the Bulky Furniture Collection Service for larger items.”

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