Richmond's main waste and recycling centre will be closed for "longer than anticipated" due to the extent of damage from a fire at the site last month where 100 tonnes of waste caught fire.

Richmond Council has closed bookings for Townmead Road Re-use and Recycling Centre, the main waste and recycling centre in the borough, as safety inspections carried out at the start of July showed more work was needed to make the site safe.

The tip was temporarily closed on June 20 after a massive blaze engulfed one of the centre's sheds.

100 tonnes of rubbish were set alight in the fire, which took 70 firefighters more than 3 hours to bring under control.

The Council is now finalising a plan for a partial re-opening of the site with a reduced capacity, in a way that is safe for both the public and site staff.

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee said:

"I know it is frustrating for residents that Townmead Road has been closed for this long, and that people have had multiple bookings cancelled, but safety has always been our priority.

"I am pleased we now have a clear view of what needs to be done and plan to get the site operational as soon as possible.

"Unfortunately capacity will be reduced for a time, therefore there will be fewer slots available once the booking site reopens, so I would still encourage people to think of alternative options in the interim such as using the bulky waste collection service or visiting one of the other West London sites.

"I would also ask that people think about how they can reduce their or store their recycling and waste until they are able to visit Townmead Road again.

"Please also keep an eye on the Townmead Road section of the Council website for updates on the reopening."

Where can I take my rubbish while the centre is closed?

Richmond residents can take their waste and recycling to other sites in West London.

Sadly people living in Richmond upon Thames are unable to use the nearest tips in Wandsworth and Kingston as they are in a different Greater London waste authority area.

But you can make a booking at one of the places below.

- Brent

- Ealing – Greenford and Acton

- Harrow

- Hillingdon – Harefield

- Hounslow

Richmond Council's advice is to check for any different waste charges on the website before you go.

They are also telling residents to book as having a prior appointment at Townmead Road does not guarantee entry.

Above all, do not leave rubbish on the street as this is fly-tipping, a serious crime which could lead to large fines.

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