The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
South Holland residents have been up in arms about the local recycling centre – again – and a county councillor has suggested people ‘avoid weekends’ or ‘buy a compost bin.’
Traffic was queued back beyond the roundabout in Spalding’s Wardentree Lane at least two consecutive Fridays.
The centre, at West Marsh Road, was busy over the weekend and problems soon became clear.
Readers contacted The Voice to vent their frustration at trying to use the centre when one of the two lanes is closed, so traffic continues to back-up.
The mood of motorists wasn’t helped by a sign blaming COVID for nobody being able to help those using the centre.
“Thinking back to my supermarket visit, the checkout assistant was allowed to touch every item I plan to eat,” said Roger Goodliff.
The fact the centre isn’t open every day during the summer, as it once was, has also caused irritation.
Issues with the centre have been reported for several years, with booking required during the pandemic.
But Coun Daniel McNally, executive member for waste at the county council, which owns the centre, said: “Why not ask South Holland District Council for a garden waste bin? Even better, you could make or buy a compost bin. Not only will this reduce your need to visit our recycling centres, but the compost can be used in your garden to improve your soil.”
“Spalding is one of our busier sites, especially for people getting rid of garden waste,” added Coun McNally, who represents Saltfleet, north of Mablethorpe.
He said that the centre can’t control how many people visit, or when and claimed the site would only be closed or a certain type of waste not accepted as a ‘last resort.’
He also claimed that as most people tidy gardens at the weekend, it may not be a good time to visit the recycling site.
“Try delaying your visit to a Monday or a Tuesday of you can,” he said.
But comments on Facebook from the weekend blames ‘comedy organisation’ with long queues and staff not allowing people to walk to the right area with their bags.
“This place is so badly organised,” said Tony Howitt.
“Only tip in the country I’ve ever been to where you can’t just go to the section you need to unload and move on,” added Lenni Shields.
There were also calls for the centre to be moved and expanded to take into account all the new homes being built in South Holland.
“I took garden rubbish and it took me three-quarters of an hour queuing,” said Barbara Holmes, who had to visit three times before she could leave her rubbish.
