Recycling banks removal: Helston Mayor speaks on people's concerns as residents speak out

Helston Mayor has spoken on Cornwall Council's decision to remove recycling banks in Helston following residents overwhelmingly negative response.

Fairground Car Park and Trenghouse recycling banks will be removed on 10th August.

The council said:

"These recycling banks were put in place before we introduced our household recycling collections.

"Recycling is collected from every household in Cornwall every two weeks."

John Martin, Helston Mayor, told Nub News:

"I completely appreciate people's concerns about losing both of these recycling facilities.

"I would have preferred at least if they could have phased them out one at a time over a period of time. However, we can now appreciate the costs involved.

"Helston Town Council was asked whether they could take on the management of these facilities and after consulting with other town councils we recognised that as a relatively small authority we could not afford to.

"There is one main advantage I can see as a result of these closures - It may encourage our residents and businesses to continue to adjust their lifestyles and waste management accordingly, as we face a climate emergency.

"There is an excellent kerbside collection still and we are fortunate to have our recycling centre nearby. "

Helston residents have been speaking out against the decision, with many feeling it will promote fly-tipping and littering.

One resident stated: "Another way to encourage fly-tipping, well done Cornwall Council, this is a real gem!"

Another resident said: "When you've only got a van for work and social. You can't just pop to the recycling centre. Crazy how many steps back we're taking."

"The recycling centre will still be open. Trouble is with banks even if they are full people still leave rubbish and then it costs more for people to clean it up," said another.

Cornwall Council will continue doing their fortnightly household collection and Waste and Recycling Centres remain open.