RESIDENTS are being urged to expect long queues and to follow restrictions in place when recycling centres reopen.

Following the Government’s announcement about easing social distancing restrictions, Essex County Council decided to reopen the final six recycling centres which were closed since March 24.

The Dovercourt and Lawford recycling centres are also included in the list and will be reopening on Friday, July 10.

To ensure the safety of residents and site staff, several new restrictions and social distancing measures have been put in place.

Simon Walsh, county council cabinet member for environment and climate change action, said: “I’m pleased to announce the government's easing of lockdown has meant we’re able to safely open these smaller recycling centres.

“With all recycling centres in Essex open on Friday the priority remains the same - we must ensure the safety of residents and site staff, which is why a number of new restrictions and social distancing measures have been put in place.

“These safety measures will make your visit take longer than normal, so please be patient and expect long queues.

"To avoid these queues, I’d urge anyone able to make use of other ways to dispose of their waste, such as kerbside collections, to do so.

"I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding at this time."

Restrictions include only one person can exit the vehicle, the number of vehicles allowed on site will be controlled at the gate and staff will be directing traffic and will show visitors where to park.

People have been asked to only bring waste or items they can unload themselves, as staff are unable to help.

Visitors have also been asked to not start queuing before sites are open as it will add to local traffic congestion, which may result in being asked to move on.

Any residents showing symptoms of Covid-19, self-isolating or shielding should not visit any recycling centre and should follow advice from Public Health England.

All recycling sites, including the West Mersea and Kirby le Soken Recycling Centres, will reopen at 9am on Friday.

Normal operation days and hours will resume from Saturday.