Islanders are being reminded that waste and recycling services will continue as normal despite the forthcoming Late May Bank Holiday.
The Isle of Wight Council has confirmed that there will be no changes to household waste or recycling collections on this Bank Holiday Monday (27th May) or during the week that follows.
Recycling centres will also remain open as usual, though residents are reminded that advance booking is essential. Those planning a visit to a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) are urged to stick to their booked time slot.
Arriving too early can cause traffic congestion, particularly at Lynnbottom, where queues can lead to dangerous build-ups on Briddlesford Road.
To help keep things running smoothly, the council is also offering a few helpful tips for those undertaking a bit of spring cleaning over the long weekend:
• Sort your waste before you go – separating items into categories will make your trip to the tip quicker and more efficient.
• Extra cardboard? No problem. Simply bundle it neatly and leave it beside your recycling bin or sack on your collection day.
• Unwanted but usable items – these can be donated to charity, sold online, or given away. The council also offers a free reuse collection service — more details can be found at www.iow.gov.uk/waste
• Bulky items – items that can’t be reused can be collected through the council’s paid Bulky Waste Collection service, which allows up to four items per order.
The council is also reminding residents that if they choose to use a private waste carrier, it is their legal responsibility to ensure the carrier is licensed. Using an unlicensed service or leaving waste out for unauthorised collection could result in fly-tipping — and if the waste is traced back to the householder, a hefty fine could follow.
For full details on all waste and recycling services, including booking slots at recycling centres and arranging collections, visit www.iow.gov.uk/waste.