Gloucester’s Hempsted Household Recycling Centre (HRC) is scheduled to close for a three-month period starting 13 August to allow for crucial improvement works. The centre is expected to reopen by mid-November following the upgrades.
The closure will facilitate a series of enhancements aimed at increasing the site’s efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. Among the improvements are the installation of six new electrical waste compactors specifically for general waste, garden waste, and cardboard. These compactors will operate entirely on renewable electricity, contributing to reduced waste transport journeys and lowering the site’s environmental footprint.
In addition to the compactor installations, a new reuse shop is planned to open in the months following the site’s reopening. This facility will enable items brought to the centre to be repaired and given a second life, promoting waste reduction and community reuse.
Further improvements include resurfacing the site, reinforcing concrete walls, and upgrading drainage systems to better manage rainwater. These measures intend to mitigate flooding risks and prevent unplanned closures in the future.
During the closure, residents who usually use Hempsted HRC will need to access alternative centres, the closest of which are Wingmoor Farm HRC in Bishops Cleeve, approximately 13 miles away, and Pyke Quarry HRC near Nailsworth, about 15 miles away. Both alternatives represent significantly longer journeys for local residents.
The Gloucestershire County Council has acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the temporary closure and expressed gratitude for residents’ patience as the essential works are completed. Details on alternative recycling centres and their opening hours can be found on the Gloucestershire Recycles website.
Cllr Ashley Bowkett, cabinet member for nature, climate and waste reduction, commented:
“I know this temporary closure will be frustrating for many residents who rely on Hempsted, and I want to thank people for their patience while this important work is carried out.
These improvements are an investment in a better service for the future. They will make the site more efficient, more environmentally friendly and more resilient, with the added benefit of helping us to reduce our environmental impact.
We appreciate this will cause some short-term disruption, but these upgrades will help us provide a more reliable and sustainable service for everyone who uses the site.”
Separately, it was confirmed earlier this week that Gloucestershire’s recycling sites will introduce new charges from next year for people bringing excess DIY waste, in changes that have prompted significant local debate.