Moray Council looks at ways to safely reopen recycling centres
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MORAY Council staff are looking at safe ways to reopen recycling centres and restart glass collections, it emerged today.
The council is expected to provide an update soon on the reintroduction of these services and is liaising with COSLA and the Scottish Government on the issue.
After raising a question on recycling during a meeting of the council today, Conservative Councillor Tim Eagle (Buckie) welcomed work by its staff who are looking at options to reinstate the services.
Cllr Eagle said: "So many of our departments have seen radical changes in the way they operate over the last few months and we simply must show our appreciation and thanks to them as they work under constantly shifting policies and positions.
"However, I also know many members of the public are keen to see the reopening of recycling centres and the collection of glass recycling.
"I raised a question on these points during the emergency cabinet meeting of Moray Council today and am pleased to be told that staff are working on plans just now and hopefully we will be provided with an update soon.
"Specifically on recycling centres, it is worth noting that the authority to open recycling centres does not sit with Moray Council. Currently local councils are working along with their representative body, COSLA, and the Scottish Government on a joint position to ensure that as we do reopen recycling centres that can be done with the necessary practical steps and support in place.
"I have personally made contact with COSLA and Councillor Steven Heddle, from Orkney, who is the COSLA spokesperson for the environment. I am delighted to hear that, both at local and national level, these discussions are progressing and we hope that further announcements will be made on this soon."
He added: "What I must continue to stress though is that fly-tipping is 100% unacceptable. There is no reason whatsoever to fly-tip. It is causing many issues around Moray, with landowners particularly affected.
"I can only plead with the public to bear with us whilst we put the safety measures in place and work with national partners to get recycling centres reopened."
The council's paid-for uplift service for bulky items will be reintroduced from Monday, May 18.
