Barnsley Council warns of delays as tips reopen for essential waste only

Centres at Goldthorpe, Penistone, Smithies and Worsbrough closed in March to protect the public and staff from coronavirus, but have now reopened for essential waste only, with strict social distancing measures in place.

There will be a restriction on the number of vehicles allowed into centres at any one time and the council is urging residents not to visit unless absolutely necessary - lengthy queues and long delays are expected.

Essential waste is classed as grey and green bin waste that is starting to smell. DIY waste, cardboard, electricals and large items such as sofas and mattresses should be stored at home until further notice.

Council bosses say a phased approach is planned to reopen the centres fully.

Only one person per car will be allowed to attend the centres, with exceptions made where this is not possible.

Staff will not be permitted to help when disposing items due to social distancing, so anyone visiting is asked to only bring what they can carry.

Residents may also be asked to return another day if the queue is too long, while trailers, long-wheelbase vans or vehicles longer than 5.2 metres are not allowed.

Coun Chris Lamb, cabinet spokesman for place, said: “We want to help residents where we can during these difficult times.

“We know people are spending more time at home and in their gardens and many are making home improvements or doing more gardening than they normally would at this time of year.

"However, wherever they can, we urge people to compost or hold onto this waste for now and stay away from the centres.

“We reluctantly had to close the centres in March. Despite repeated guidance about social distancing, people were not conforming and staff were abused and threatened when they tried to impose distancing measures.

"As time has gone on, we believe the public have come to further understand the need for social distancing. We hope people will respect our staff and each other and use these sites safely and responsibly.”

All sites are open daily; Goldthorpe, 9am-5pm; Penistone, 9.30am-4.30pm; Smithies, 9.30am-4.30pm; and Worsbrough, 8.30am-7pm.

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