Future of recycling centres up for discussion

 

NEARLY half a million pounds is needed to get household waste recycling sites in the region up to a minimum operational standard.

So, officials at the cash-strapped council are starting to consider the future of all the local ‘tips’.

A detailed review of all 12 recycling centres has been carried out, looking at potential restructuring.

And the findings will go before councillors this week, including the conclusion that there is an over‑provision of sites relative to population and demand, and that the current model is not financially or operationally sustainable in its present form.

They will hear that the development of Dumfries Zero Waste Park presents an opportunity to modernise and reshape services; and that a more efficient and sustainable model ‘may involve a reduced number of strategically located sites’.

Elected members will only have to note the findings and agree the key areas for further development, ahead of a further report in September, which will seek approval for a formal consultation on future options.