Recycling collections in the Wycombe and Chiltern District have been suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Both district councils confirmed the news today (Monday, March 23) via their Twitter pages.

The suspension will include both paper and card along with mixed dry recycling such as cans, glass, and plastics.

However, they did say that recycling collections at communal properties (flats/HMOs) will continue to take place.

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In their official statement, they said: “Due to the ongoing situation regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), waste services are currently operating with a reduced number of staff.

“Today (March 23) we have had to make the difficult decision to suspend recycling collections in Chiltern and Wycombe, due to the driver and loader shortages.

“We are working with our contractors to secure extra staff so that any disruption is as short as possible and further updates will be provided later today.

“The suspension includes both paper and card (box) and mixed dry recycling (cans, glass and plastic in bins).

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“Recycling collections at communal properties (flats/houses of multiple occupancies) will continue to take place.

“This follows the decision last week to suspend garden waste collections in Chiltern and Wycombe.

“Unfortunately, we are also no longer collecting bulky waste.

"Advice on alternative disposal options is available online.

“We will be contacting all of the affected residents to issue a refund.

"During this challenging time, it is important we can resource our most important services.

“By suspending the garden waste service and recycling service, we are able to use these vehicles, drivers and loaders to support general rubbish, food and clinical collections, which must be prioritised.

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“We apologise for any inconvenience caused, and we ask you for your understanding and patience during what is an incredibly challenging time for everyone."

The statement concluded with both district councils suggesting that residents should use recycling centres, but to make sure they are a fair distance away from other people.

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