Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) remain closed but will open for essential use only from Monday 18 May, subject to the following rules enforced due to coronavirus restrictions:

You should only visit a HWRC if the waste you are storing at home represents a health and safety risk.

You should not visit HWRCs under any circumstances if any of the following applies:

  • you are in self-isolation
  • you have COVID-19 symptoms
  • you live with someone who has symptoms

It is not advisable for a member of the public who is considered to be “vulnerable” to COVID-19 to use HWRC services because of the risk of increased exposure to the virus.

When will HWRCs be open? F

From Monday 18 May, the recycling centres will be open during their normal operational hours.

Some sites may have to close at short notice due to operational issues such as staff shortages or queues blocking neighbouring roads.

What will I need to know before I travel to a HWRC?

  • If any households have had COVID-19 symptoms then the waste should be left for 72 hours before being brought to site and the waste should be double-bagged
  • No medical waste should be brought to the HWRC for disposal
  • You should bring a document (e.g. a bill) that displays your name and address which must be shown to site staff if requested

Unacceptable or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances and the site staff reserve the right to ask to leave the HWRC without depositing your waste.

Will there be any restrictions?

  • The number of vehicles on-site will be restricted and vehicles will be allowed access on a one in, one outbasis
  • Only one person should leave a vehicle to deposit waste
  • Traffic management will be in place at all sites and due to safety concerns queueing outside of the site will be restricted, residents may be asked to leave and return at a later time
  • The HWRC e-permits systemwill remain in force, which will restrict access for commercial type vehicles

How will social distancing be enforced?

Social distancing will be strictly enforced on-site, which means:

  • You must follow the instructions from site staff regarding the one-way systems for pedestrians that are in place
  • Unfortunately, no assistance for unloading can be provided