Burntwood’s recycling will stay open after a campaign forced a rethink of the decision to close it.

Staffordshire County Council confirmed that the household waste recycling centre would not be closed after a review of sites across the county.

The tip had originally been earmarked for closure, but a campaign led by local councillors and residents has led to a u-turn by the County Council.

Cllr Robbie Marshall, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure said:

“We had previously believed that closing the site at Burntwood was justifiable because there were already alternative sites at Lichfield and Cannock that were within reasonable travelling distance. Local people made the strength of their feelings known which is why we have taken another look at all aspects of the way we manage our sites.

“We have looked to identify greater efficiencies and adopt innovative ways of running the operation. The county council is now adopting a more efficient structure, and after initial discussions with our contractors we now believe we can achieve savings of at least £150,000 per annum while protecting the front-line.

“I am therefore pleased to say that Burntwood will remain open while we continue to look at the longer-term financial viability of all sites. People should not view this as a coded message that we intend to close services further down the line. This is a straight message that we intend to protect services which are valued by the taxpayer, but must look at making them financially sustainable in the long-term.

“In the current financial climate it is right that we should constantly look to provide services in the most efficient and economic way.”

The decision was welcomed by Lichfield Burntwood North County Councillor Steve Tranter. He added:

“This announcement is very welcome. I have been lobbying hard for a rethink of the original proposal and am delighted that the county council has listened.  We are experiencing tough financial times and it is right that public services across the board are reviewed, but my top priority is the people of Burntwood and I will continue to do everything I can to make sure services they need are provided.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.

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Extended opening hours for Burntwood recycling centre saved from closure - The Lichfield Blog
13 years ago

[…] centre was only saved from closure after a u-turn by Staffordshire County Council following a campaign by local […]