HOUSEHOLD waste and recycling centres (HWRCs) in Hampshire will be staying opening during the lockdown.

Residents will still need make a booking in advance and are asked to check the website ahead of their visit in case a site needs to close at short notice due to staffing levels being affected by Covid-19.

Councillor Rob Humby, the deputy leader of Hampshire County Council and executive member for economy, transport and environment, said: “The booking system at the HWRCs is working well, and social distancing measures are in place. The sites will continue to accept as many of the usual household waste materials as they can while the onward market accepts them.

"However, I would ask that people consider if they really do need to make a trip to the tip at this time and, if they can, to either use their kerbside waste collections or store their waste safely at home until restrictions are lifted.”

Booking slots are available seven days in advance at each of Hampshire’s 24 HWRCs, and can be made online, for those without internet access, by phone on 02380 179 949, between Monday and Friday 9am to 5.30pm.

Essential highways maintenance will continue, including emergency pothole repairs, winter gritting, drainage cleansing and flood prevention work.

Councillor Humby added: “The government has said that construction is not expected to close operations down, and we are committed to continuing with essential road maintenance as far as our staff resources and materials supply chain allows. I would like to reassure Hampshire residents that all our operations are carried out in a COVID-safe way, with social distancing measures in place at all times.”