A new ‘super community recycling centre’ is to open in Newport.
The new vastly enlarged centre will replace the current recycling site on Springfield Industrial Estate.
Telford & Wrekin Council has pledged to build the new centre in the next three years, but probably by 2012.
The move will cut costs by slashing the amount of waste going to landfill, create new jobs and free-up space for development.
The council is currently searching for a suitable location, but promised that it would be within Newport boundaries, ending rumours that the town would soon be without a recycling hub.
Town and borough councillor Adrian Meredith said it was good news for residents.
He said: “I knew we’d never lose our recycling centre as some people claimed because it is so well used. I would have resigned before that happened. But I’m delighted that we’re going to get a big one. This will bring Newport up to scratch and into the 21st Century.”
Newport’s current centre has been working at maximum capacity for some time with thousands of users every year, many coming from outside the town to dispose of their waste.
Town and borough Councillor Eric Carter said the Council is working on possible new locations.
He said: “We are currently discussing potential sites, possibly within the private sector. I have a few places in mind.
“It is an important facility for the people of Newport.
“This new one will be a better facility than the current one, it will create an opportunity for the current site and create jobs.”
Newport Liberal Democrats had campaigned to save the recycling centre after rumours that it was to be scrapped completely.
This week spokeswoman Brenda Flowers voiced her relief at the announcement.
She said: “It’s very good news, provided it’s within the town boundaries and it can be easily accessed.
“It’s lovely that this has been promised for Newport and we are extremely relieved. There is also talk of bio waste recycling for food remains, which would be a good step.”
By Sean Wozencroft