All you need to know as north-east recycling centres reopen

Some recycling centres in the north-east are reopening today - for the first time since the start of lockdown.

Strict rules apply on the types of waste that can be dropped off - and certain sites are still closed for now.

Local authorities have issued information for residents who are using the facilities.

Aberdeen

Three centres are reopening - Hazlehead, Bucksburn and Tullos - between 10am and 7.45pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 7.45pm Saturdays and Sundays. Tullos is closed on Wednesdays.

The council says people should only make a trip if their waste cannot be stored safely at home, and no alternative disposal options are available.

Some rules are also in force:

• People need to stay two metres away from others
• Only household general waste, non-electrical bulky waste, garden waste and cardboard will be accepted
• Visitors need to take a form of ID with an address on it - such as a driving licence or bill - to prove they live in the city
• No large vans or trailers are allowed
• Only one person will be permitted per vehicle, and they must unload items without the assistance of staff, who will not be able to help

Traffic measures will be in place, and residents are being warned to expect queues, especially in the morning.

Aberdeenshire

Most recycling centres are reopening with extended hours - these are Fraserburgh, Macduff, Peterhead, Ellon, Turriff, Inverurie, Westhill, Laurencekirk, Stonehaven, Portlethen, Banchory and Huntly.

The local authority says the following rules apply:

• Slots must be booked in advance, online, using the council's website
• Only cars and pick-ups are allowed to visit - trailers and vans are not permitted
• Materials are limited to bagged non-recyclable waste, electrical items and bagged garden waste - bags must be emptied into the skips
• New bays have been created to assist with physical distancing

Residents are being told to only visit a centre if it is "absolutely essential" - where waste cannot be safely disposed of at home.