More than 2,500 permits issued to Sunderland families as they look to visit tip after seven-week lockdown

The Household Waste and Recycling Centre in Beach Street closed its gates on Tuesday, March 24 after orders from the Government in the wake of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s lockdown announcement the evening before.

On Thursday, May 7, Sunderland City Council confirmed it would reopen, after Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said they should open while sticking to guidance to keep visitors and staff safe.

On its first day (Monday, May 11), people queued for a short time to enter the Deptford site and dump their waste after applying for an appointment from the council, with slots of 30 minutes allocated to residents and proof of residence and their booking to be shown in the car windscreen.

The system has been set up to keep waiting times to a minimum, with a traffic management scheme on-site and only cars and bagged waste allowed to make it easier for people.

Visitors have been urged to access the site via Farringdon Row due to roadworks.

Following on from a busy but orderly first day back for the site’s team, the council revealed it has handled a high number of applications since it was confirmed the service would relaunch under new rules to keep people socially distanced.

Cabinet member for environment and transport, Councillor Amy Wilson, said: “Demand is strong, as expected after several weeks of lockdown, and as of noon Monday, May 11, we have issued more than 2,500 permits in response to residents’ requests to visit Beach Street.

“We’d like to thank everyone for managing their waste properly and for their patience as the new arrangements get underway.

“Advice remains to book an appointment and turn up only at the allocated time - please respect staff and other members of the public as you approach and enter the site.

“Social distancing remains important.”

Anyone who would like to find out more or to book an appointment can visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/household-waste-centres.

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