Alresford residents can look forward to a bigger and better household waste recycling centre (HWRC), when an improved facility opens in Prospect Road this summer thanks to Hampshire County Council.

The new site, scheduled to open in July, will have additional containers for the collection of household waste and recyclables, and will mean residents will be able to recycle a greater range of materials - including garden waste.

The existing HWRC will close for approximately 10 weeks at 7pm on 28 April while the new facility is built. A temporary HWRC will open at 8am on 29 April, located at the top end of Prospect Road.

New Alresford Town Council has been instrumental in ensuring that a temporary HWRC is available for the duration of the closure, as it was concerned about an increased risk of fly tipping in the area if no alternative site was provided.

In order to comply with the requirements of the Environment Agency, the temporary facility will have only one large open-top container for bulky household and garden waste. Large items, such as fridges and cookers, will also be accepted.

During busy periods, such as weekends, the container is likely to become full, and residents may be asked to return once it has been emptied, or at a quieter time.

The County Council's Executive Member for Environment, Councillor Keith Estlin, said: "The location of the temporary facility was chosen as it causes the least inconvenience to local residents, and limits the need to travel further afield.

"There will inevitably be times when the container is full, and I'd like to apologise in advance if residents are unable to use the facility until it has been emptied. Please bear with us during construction of the new HWRC, which will be worth the wait."

The nearest alternative HWRCs are available in Alton, Winchester and Bishops Waltham - for further information call 01962 847021. When the new site is operational, the temporary facility will be removed and the grass verge reinstated.

ENDS