HOUSEHOLD recycling centres in south Shropshire have reopened with some heavy queues as people take steps to clear rubbish that has accumulated during the shutdown.

Household Recycling Centres colloquially known to as tips, reopened in Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin last week.

It is hoped that this will reduce the amount of fly-tipping that has been happening since the Covid-19 shutdown.

The full extent of this is not known because much of it happens on private land.

Recycling centres including the one in Craven Arms are open every day of the week between 9am and 5pm.

The centre in Craven Arms is the nearest for people who live in Ludlow and still represents a significant drive at a time when the message is that only essential journeys should be made.

No vans are allowed.

Initially there were queues as people disposed of rubbish that had been accumulating for the past six weeks.

But there are restrictions and social distancing rules are in place.

Only cars will be admitted. There is a strict limit of one person per car. Veolia staff will not assist with unloading vehicles.

One visit is allowed each day. A limit to the number of cars allowed on site at any one time is in place.

No trailers or vans, even small vans, will be let into the household recycling centres and waste permits will not be accepted.

No trade or commercial waste is being accepted.

Asbestos, oils, chemicals, and paints must not be taken to the sites and should be stored safely at home until Veolia is able to safely process them.

People have been asked to report any fly-tipping to Shropshire Council.

This is an offence and can result in prosecution.

Waste that is fly-tipped is not only unsightly but can also be a risk to both humans and wildlife. This is more of a risk if chemical or other hazardous waste such as asbestos in dumped.