As a resident of Blackburn, I am deeply concerned about the Executive Board's recent decision to close our existing recycling facility and relocate it to a less accessible site. This move has significant implications for our community, particularly in light of the ongoing issue of flytipping in Blackburn. It's essential that we address these concerns before moving forward with any relocation plans and warrants the council to urgently reconsider.

The decision to relocate the recycling facility to Goose House Lane in Darwen (past the M65 Junction) affects not only those who actively use these services but also the larger community. The new proposed site is situated much farther from major residential areas, making it less convenient for many Blackburn residents to utilize. This distance disparity could result in fewer residents participating in recycling efforts, ultimately exacerbating the problem of waste management and flytipping.

As a resident of Blackburn, I am deeply concerned about the Executive Board's recent decision to close our existing recycling facility and relocate it to a less accessible site and cost the local taxpayer £7.7 million (updated from £5 million in 2022). This move has significant implications for our community, particularly in light of the ongoing issue of flytipping in Blackburn. It's essential that we address these concerns before moving forward with any relocation plans and warrants the council to urgently reconsider. The council decision makers believe it will save £600k a year, without considering costs for clearing additional rubbish/fly tipping in Blackburn.

The decision to relocate the recycling facility affects not only those who actively use these services but also the larger community. The new proposed site is situated much farther from major residential areas, making it less convenient for many Blackburn residents to utilize. This distance disparity could result in fewer residents participating in recycling efforts, ultimately exacerbating the problem of waste management and flytipping.

The new location is considerably less accessible than the current one. The increased distance will also contribute to more traffic congestion in an already problematic area of the borough, this could result in negative environmental impacts from vehicle emissions and potential noise pollution; a significant impact on local air quality and the health of nearby residents is very probable.

If residents are unable to easily access the facility, they may be more likely to dispose of waste improperly, leading to environmental degradation and increased costs for the council to clean up.

It's imperative to suggest alternative locations that would be more appropriate for this facility. We need a site that is accessible to all the community, has minimal environmental impact, and reduces the risk of fly tipping. 

We urge the council to engage with community, stakeholders and environmental experts in reassessing the relocation site. By doing so, we can ensure that the final decision aligns with both community convenience and our shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
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Your support is crucial in making a difference. Sign this petition to voice your opposition to the current relocation plan and to advocate for a new, more suitable solution for Blackburn’s recycling and waste management needs. A solution that truly benefits our community and our environment. Your support is needed to drive the necessary change.