Council Leader "delighted" to secure future of two HRCs
Household Recycling Centres in Purton and Lower Compton had been set to shut, but a deal has been made to keep them open
As people in the north of Wiltshire breathe a sigh of relief over the future of two Household Recycling Centres (HRCs), the Leader of Wiltshire Council says he's delighted to have resolved their immediate future.
Wiltshire Council extended contracts for the Purton and Lower Compton recycling centres after reaching successful agreements with Hills, to continue using the sites.
Both had been set to close on cost grounds, but a deal has been struck to keep them open for the next three years.
The original plan had drawn the ire of local people and Cllr Thorn's own Calne Town Council, of which he is Mayor.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Cllr Ian Thorn emphasized the financial viability and importance of ensuring these sites remain operational while plans for a new recycling facility are developed.
"The original proposals were financially unacceptable," he said. "I'm delighted that Hills came back with a proposal we can afford, providing flexibility for delivering a new site in the north of the county."
The authority is continuing with plans to create a permanent, Council-owned recycling centre in Royal Wootton Bassett.
Ongoing plans for local waste services
The extended contracts mean that Purton and Lower Compton will continue to operate until a new site is ready to open, ensuring residents have access to waste disposal services without interruption.
Cllr Thorn also highlighted that maintaining more recycling centres could help mitigate issues such as fly-tipping, noting that serious cases often involve commercial interests rather than local residents.
According to the Council leader, locals who responsibly use the facilities are unlikely to resort to illegal dumping, and the continuation of services will further combat fly-tipping.
Future sites and public consultation
As Wiltshire Council continues to explore options for a permanent replacement facility in the north, consultations with residents, local town council, and councillors are a priority.
Cllr Thorn stated, "We're committed to a thorough public consultation to identify the right location and services that residents truly want."
With eight recycling sites already owned by Wiltshire Council, the goal is to secure ownership of the new site to better serve communities in the northern region.
Wiltshire Council remains focused on accommodating local waste needs as the planning process moves forward, ensuring robust public involvement in decision making.