Coalisland recycling centre is saved from closure

THE proposed closure of a Tyrone recycling centre is “firmly off the table” after a long-running community campaign to keep it open.

Over a year ago, it was revealed that Coalisland and Fivemiletown were among five facilities under threat as part of Mid Ulster District Council’s planned ‘rationalisation of waste recycling centres’.

In the wake of this announcement, the Coalisland community launched a successful campaign to ‘Save Our Skips’, which received strong support from local independent republican councillor Dan Kerr.

Speaking to the Tyrone Herald, Cllr Kerr said he was “very glad” to see that the future of Coalisland Recycling Centre had been resolved.

Now, he is urging local residents to respond to Mid Ulster District Council’s consultation that will allow the public to have their say regarding opening hours at the facility.

Cllr Kerr said, “I was disappointed that this local amenity was up for potential closure which was recommended by council officers and supported by some of the establishment parties in the 2023 Special Rates meeting.

“After much lobbying by myself and the public outcry, I’m glad that the closure of Coalisland Recycling Centre is firmly off the table and I’d encourage local residents to respond to the consultation which is now on the Mid Ulster District Council social media platforms and its website.

“I’d encourage people to request that the centre is open both evenings during the summer months as rates have increased dramatically this year and last year.

“We need to maintain our services for the ratepayers, not decrease them.

“There can be no justification for increasing people’s rates and reducing frontline services.”

CONSULTATION

Mid Ulster District Council’s 12-week consultation is open until Friday, July 5.

It includes a proposal for a reduction in opening hours across the 11 recycling centres operated by the council.

This includes Cookstown, Coalisland and Fivemiletown.

While the proposal represents an overall reduction in site opening hours, the council says a balanced approach has been taken to ensure that provision is available on every weekday across particular areas. Mid Ulster District Council chair, Cllr Dominic Molloy, has also encouraged everyone to give their views.

Cllr Molloy said, “We want to know what people think of our pragmatic proposals that make savings but also minimise any impact on residents.

“As a council, we’re doing what we can to make services as efficient as possible, but the growing pressures mean we have to make tough decisions like the ones put forward here.

“Please complete the consultation as we really do welcome everyone’s thoughts.”