Clacton: Recycling banks to be removed from retail park

Tendring Council has taken the decision to permanently remove the two newspaper and magazine bins from Waterglade Retail Park in Clacton.

The bins have been targeted by arsonists a number of times.

Council environment boss Adrian Smith said: "Unfortunately, these paper banks have been subjected to repeated arson attacks, causing severe damage and costs to both the banks and their contents, which then must be disposed of as residual waste due to fire and water damage.

"Despite our efforts to work with the contractor, they can no longer absorb the cost of these acts of arson.

"As such, we have agreed that these banks are to be removed from this site and not replaced.

"It is incredibly disappointing that we have to take this action due to the reckless behaviour of a few individuals.

"We take pride in our services to residents and want to champion our environment, so it is very frustrating that these facilities must be removed."

The bins have been targeted by arsonists on a number of occasions, causing damage to the bins and their contents. (Image: Tendring District Council) The council said the most recent arson attacks happened in March and April.

The council thanked residents who use the recycling banks for their understanding.

Mr Smith added: "I would like to thank residents who used these recycling banks for their understanding and would urge anyone who spots vandalism or witnesses suspicious behaviour at our facilities to contact the police immediately."

Paper and cardboard can still be recycled at the kerbside as part of the usual household recycling collection. (Image: Tendring District Council) Paper and cardboard can still be recycled at the kerbside as part of the usual household recycling collection.

Residents will also still be able to recycle glass and textiles at the Waterglade Retail Park bring site.

Anyone who witnesses incidents of criminal damage at the site is encouraged to report it directly to Essex Police.

This can be done online via Essex Police's website.