Recycling Village Reminder Ahead of Busy Bank Holiday

Residents are reminded about the restrictions in place at South Tyneside's Recycling Village ahead of an expected busy Bank Holiday weekend.

The Recycling Village at Middlefields Industrial Estate in South Shields is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9am to 6pm.

However, restrictions remain in place to help keep staff and visitors safe, with limited numbers of people allowed on site at any one time to support the Government's social distancing rules and help prevent spread of coronavirus.

The Council continues to operate the 'Even Plate, Even Date / Odd Plate, Odd Date' system. Cars with the wrong plate for the date will be asked to leave the queue and to return on the corresponding day. Vans can visit with a permit between 9.30am to 11am.

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: "Many people tend to use the long Bank Holiday weekend for a clear out. As such this leads to extra demand for our Recycling Village.

"With many residents expected to use the facility over the coming days, we are reminding them that there are still rules in place that must be observed. This is important for the safety of all those on site.

"We would ask people to mindful of the restrictions around what vehicles are permitted on site on which days and be respectful of staff who continue to work in difficult circumstances. Please know what to do and what to expect before visiting."

Before visiting, residents are reminded to:

• Check which day they can visit -

- Friday 28 May, EVEN plates

- Saturday 29 May, ODD plates

- Sunday 30 May, EVEN plates

- Monday 31 May, ODD plates

• Check their vehicle is permitted on site and whether a permit is needed;
• Check what type of materials can be safely disposed of at the Recycling Village and separate them before arriving to reduce time on site;
• Batteries must not be disposed of in the large waste containers; they should be removed from items and placed in the specific battery recycling point (on the right hand side on exiting the site);
• Please do not arrive before opening at 9am or leave it too late to visit. Last entry for cars is 5.50pm;
• Do not queue along Boldon Lane, which must be kept clear for safety reasons;
• Do not visit if experiencing symptoms of Covid-19.

Councillor Gibson added: "We continue to work hard to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors, in line with the Government's current national guidelines around social distancing. We thank the public for their patience and support while restrictions remain in place."

For further information about South Tyneside Recycling Village, including full details of the restrictions in place and the vehicles permitted, visit the Council's website at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling