Craven Arms politicians unite in opposition to closing of recycling centre
Concerns have been raised over the potential closure of recycling centres in Shropshire, proposed as a part of ongoing cost-saving measures being taken by Shropshire Council.
The council is having to take numerous additional cuts despite being on course to save £47 million by the end of the financial year this April.
The suggestion that these cuts could see the closure of the recycling centre has been met with considerable concern from local residents. One petition has already received 7,000 signatures. Worries are not solely for the centre in Craven Arms – there have been reports that the Bridgnorth recycling centre is also on the chopping block.
Stuart Anderson, Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South Shropshire, has convened a meeting with Ludlow MP Philip Dunne, Shropshire Councillor David Evans and the Chair of Craven Arms Town Council David Mills. They met at the recycling centre in Craven Arms and discussed the impact that the closure of the plant in Craven Arms would have on the community.
One of the main fears are that this decision could have a knock-on effect on fly tipping in the area. The Craven Arms Household Recycling Centre serves a significant area in south-west Shropshire, with residents already having to travel far to get rid of household waste. If the centre is closed down, with nowhere nearby to get rid of waste, the concern is that some may resort to dumping their waste as their best option.
In addition to the meeting with local politicians, Stuart has launched a survey on his website in order for people to make their voices heard. There is a chance to explain to Stuart what the impact of the closure would be. These results will be collected and passed on to Shropshire Council.
Stuart Anderson said: “There is a real possibility that closing this recycling centre could have disastrous consequences for the local environment. The centre in Craven Arms is the only one in south-west Shropshire. Forcing locals to take a 50 mile round trip to get rid of waste could lead to an outbreak in fly tipping. One of my key priorities is to protect the countryside so I am in total opposition to any plans to close these recycling centres.”
Philip Dunne MP said: "It is vital that communities have access to nearby recycling centres, particularly in rural areas where many already have to travel far in order to responsibly dispose of their waste. The council must think again in their efforts to reduce costs. I welcome all the people who have already made their voice heard and hope that together we can encourage the Council to keep these recycling centres open.”
Take part in Stuart's survey here.
