CONSTRUCTION work to improve Hawick Community Recycling Centre means a number of temporary short-term closures are required at the facility.

The six-figure investment by Scottish Borders Council (SBC) will aim to enhance traffic management at the community recycling centre (CRC) by introducing a one-way traffic flow and keep the public away from the workings of the site.

The improvements will also aim to reduce the need for the CRC to be closed while skips are being emptied.

While the majority of the works are being carried out while the site remains open, contractors require the site to close on the following dates:

· Monday, February 15 to Friday, February 19

· Monday, February 22 to Friday, February 26

· Monday, March 21 to Friday, March 25

· Monday, March 28 to Friday, April 1

The two closures in February are to allow drainage issues – previously highlighted by members of the public – to be resolved.

The latter closure dates in March will see the current recycling centre site linked up with an extension area. 

A reduced level of service will also be provided at weekends on the following dates:

· Saturday,  February 20 to Sunday, February 21

· Saturday,  March 26 to Sunday, March 27

Members of the public are advised to expect a limited service during these weekend opening dates, with extended closure periods, restrictions on materials accepted, and on the types of vehicles able to use the site.

The centre will accept wood, garden and paper recycling and general waste if in bags that can easily be lifted.

However, there will be limited facilities for accepting metal, electrical goods and batteries.

Trailers will not be able to use the site.

A full list of materials accepted is available atwww.scotborders.gov.uk/recyclingcentres.

The public is asked only to use the site during these weekends if they feel their visit is essential, and are encouraged to use alternative CRCs at Kelso and Galashiels.

The public is also reminded that Selkirk CRC is closed from Monday, 8 February for a minimum of 16 weeks to allow for essential Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme works.

SBC’s Executive Member for Environmental Services, Councillor David Paterson, said: “The timing of the closures at Hawick Community Recycling Centre will make sure the improvements are completed prior to the start of the busy spring and summer seasons.

“Where possible, members of the public are asked to use the other recycling centres in the Borders during the closure dates.

“We realise these short-term closures will be an inconvenience to the public, but it will result in a greatly improved facility for the people of Hawick and surrounding areas.”