Amenity sites closed for public safety

Authorities respond to calls to open waste disposal facilities

Civic amenity sites around the Island are closed for 'public safety reasons' during the latest lockdown.

Only essential shops and services have continued operating since restrictions were re-introduced on 3 March.

Recent cases of fly-tipping have prompted questions as to why waste disposal facilities have not remained open.

However, local authorities say the decision to shut the sites was done so in line with government advice to minimise the spread of Covid-19.

All residents are urged to stay home with strict rules on mixing in place following a recent surge in coronavirus cases.

The founder of Beach Buddies has since weighed into the debate claiming social distancing could be maintained at civic amenity sites.

Bill Dale was speaking after waste was dumped at a beauty spot in the west of the Island.

Authorities say they are frequently reviewing all decisions made in response to the coronavirus pandemic and that concerns over travel and public interaction means the facilities will stay closed at this time.

Additional refuse collection services are also being provided in some regions to reduce the impact of the closures.