The recycling and re-use centre in St Clement’s Way, West Thurrock is to be mothballed for up to three years, Thurrock Council has announced.
The council is looking at having to save around £15 million in the next financial year — and £10 million in each of the two years following that — and in addition it has been forced to make millions of pounds of savings in the current year.
As part of the review of services, the St Clement’s centre was examined and the decision to close it from 30 November was taken. This is expected to save £135,000 per year.
Cllr Val Morris-Cook, the cabinet member for Environment, said: “We are having to make some very difficult decisions at the moment. The public’s use of the Recycling Centre has been very limited making this an extremely under used council service.
“In addition, our kerbside recycling scheme has been a great success overall, with recycling rates at over 50 per cent ’’. (April – September 2010)
“Under the circumstances it is sensible to utilise the site differently, but to ensure the situation is reviewed annually — and that’s exactly what we are doing.”
Initially the site will be used for two purposes, the continuation of environmental education provision for the community, and the maintenance of the waste-collection fleet to make the service more efficient and mean that vehicles do not have to go off site for maintenance.
This is expected to create two full-time posts and the council is also expecting to employ at least one apprentice at St Clement’s Way.
Cllr Morris-Cook added: “The civic amenity site at Linford — which has a re-use section — continues to be popular and will continue to run.
“The educational programme based St Clement’s Way helps increase understanding of the importance of waste management and recycling, which is vital to ensure the preservation of our environment for future generations.”
To find out more about Thurrock’s recycling and waste management services, visit www.thurrock.co.uk/waste or call 0800 581 281
To arrange a school, college or community group visit to the St Clements education centre, please contact Sue Bloss on 01375 413947
To find out more about jobs and apprenticeship opportunities with Thurrock Council visit www.thurrock.gov.uk
