South Northants residents urged to 'double bag' tissues in their rubbish if they have coronavirus symptoms

The authority is highlighting current Government advice to those with coronavirus symptoms to separate tissues and cleaning cloths, double-bag them in tied plastic bags, and leave them aside for 72 hours before placing the bags in the black bin.

The council's main waste and recyling services are continuing as scheduled, but bulky waste collections have been suspended and the Farthinghoe Recycling and Reuse Centre is closed.

Bin and food caddy collections are unaffected, but until further notice, residents will no longer be able to book the paid-for bulky waste service.

Northamptonshire County Council has also closed its Household Waste and Recycling Centres, including the centre in Towcester.

Councillor Dermot Bambridge, South Northamptonshire Council’s portfolio holder for environmental services, said: “I hope everyone will understand that in these difficult times it is necessary to protect members of staff and the public.

“We would ask people to be patient, it is far from ideal, but please keep hold of any unwanted bulky items until normal service can be resumed and please be mindful of Government advice on how to dispose of personal hygiene items safely.”