The initiative to waive the €5 fee for black bin waste on a trial period at the Kells Navan and Trim Recycling Centres has resulted in overstimulating visitor numbers to the extent that it has now become impossible to observe Covid 19 social distancing restrictions at the centres. Over 2,000 customers visited the centres over the weekend of the initiative, depositing 2,300 bags of refuse for safe disposal, some of which may otherwise have been illegally dumped.
The high level of activity presented difficulties in terms of traffic and essential travel restrictions also. Regretfully this high level of activity cannot be sustained in the current era of Covid 19 restrictions.
The Recycling Centres are deemed to be an essential service, in particular serving the needs of the population who do not have access to a kerbside collection service, and it is vital that they remain open during this period.
For this reason, it has been decided to reinstate the charges for household waste from 8.30am Wednesday 22nd April. This will lead to a reduction in the visitor numbers to the sites and will ensure that the sites are allowed to remain open whilst observing social distancing restrictions and that the use of the centres does not present a health threat to visitors or staff.
The public are advised to use the sites only if essentially required and to store materials where possible at this time.
The gate fee of €2 continues to be waived.
We continue to seek vigilance from the public in terms of illegal dumping which has increased in recent weeks.
All waste collectors must have a waste collection permit. Never use a waste collector who does not have a permit listed at www.nwcpo.ie
Report suspicious activity to environment@meathcoco.ie
For further information on recycling centres in Meath visit www.meath.ie