Changes to some Leicestershire recycling and household waste sites

Changes to the opening days of some recycling and household waste sites (RHWS) in Leicestershire will come into effect from the first week of October 2024.

The changes, which were agreed at the Leicestershire County Council's Cabinet in May following two public consultations – in which feedback from residents played an important part in modifying the original plans - will save £300,000 per year.

From the week beginning 30 September, the following changes to waste site arrangements will take place:

• Somerby RHWS will close permanently

• Market Harborough RHWS will open three days a week

• Shepshed RHWS will open two days a week

• Kibworth RHWS will open four days a week

The sites at Coalville, Lount and Melton Mowbray will be open for the same number of days per week, but their opening days will change. Visitors to all sites are being urged to check the Council's RHWS website for the updated opening days and times before setting out for a waste site.

All details can be found at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/waste-and-recycling/find-a-recycling-and-household-waste-site

The changes to the operation of the recycling and household waste sites have been made in response to the ongoing financial pressures faced by Leicestershire County Council, including a budget gap of £85m by 2028 due to spiralling costs and a growing demand on services.

The £300,000 annual savings will help to reduce the budget gap. Feedback from residents was gathered during two public consultations on the original plans, and played a big part in revising and modifying them.

The Council recognises that the closure of the Somerby site will have an impact on residents, but the nearby Melton Mowbray site will be open five days a week.

Please also note that all waste sites will remain on the standard summer opening hours until 30th September 2024 (9.00am to 7.00pm). All sites will move to standard winter opening hours on 1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025 (9am to 4pm on days they are open). We encourage residents to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to closing, with the last admittance no later than 6.55/3:55pm respectively).