Did you know that Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) are located throughout the UK to help residents recycle household waste? These drop-off sites are open to the public, and they accept a wide variety of items. Locate your nearest waste disposal centre in Leicestershire or your local council district. Once you know that then let’s take a quick look at what you need to know before you go.
Accepted Items
In general, CRCs accept more items than kerbside collection and handle larger quantities. You will find nearly all household items that can be recycled or reused are accepted, including food and drink containers, furniture, electronics, paper, batteries, garden waste, clothing, and cooking oil.
Recycling rules are set by the local council and can vary. Items accepted at one CRC may not be accepted at another, so be sure to check in advance which items are accepted at your site.
Charged Items
You can drop off most items for free, but non-household waste, such as tyres, rubble, and plasterboard, may incur a charge. Come prepared to pay with a debit or credit card.
Prohibited Items
Dropping off asbestos, business waste, and trade waste at CRCs is prohibited. Again, check with your local site ahead of your visit for policies that are specific to your CRC.
Plan Ahead
Before heading out to drop off your items, make sure the items are clean, containers are rinsed, and lids are removed. Presorting your items by type (e.g., papers, glass, plastics, metals) and grouping them in separate bins for transport to the site is recommended. Dropping off materials at the CRC is easier and faster this way.
Also, remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you will need to off-load materials from your vehicle at various collection points. It is wise to bring a pair of gloves for moving heavy, bulky items.
Transportation and Arrival
Most CRCs require items to be transported in a passenger car. This helps ensure the site is used only by residential customers. Vans, trucks, and trailers need a special permit or in some cases are prohibited. Be sure to bring your driver’s license as the site may ask for it to verify your residency. If you have too much waste for a residential car then you should consider a local waste removal company to take care of the job for you.
Upon entering the site, you will see various recycling bays and banks that are accessed by driving from one to another. Don’t worry about knowing where to find things—staff at the site will help you locate the correct drop-off area.