The closure of Purton Recycling Centre is a decision that adversely impacts not only the local residents but also the environment and community resources. I live in the Purton area, and the closure would mean that my family and I, along with many others in our community, would have to travel to either Marlborough or Chippenham to recycle—a 90-minute round trip.

This will inevitably lead to several negative consequences. Firstly, the increased travel distance will add more vehicles to the already busy roads, exacerbating traffic congestion and increasing the risk of accidents. Our roads are not designed to handle this additional load, and the environmental toll will be significant. Emissions from these extra journeys will increase our carbon footprint, undermining efforts to combat climate change.

Moreover, this move will likely result in an uptick in illegal fly-tipping, as people who find the journey too cumbersome or costly may decide to dump waste illegally. This not only blights our beautiful countryside but also leads to higher clean-up costs for the council, effectively negating any financial savings from closing the centre.

The financial burden of this decision falls disproportionately on working families, already stretched thin by rising costs of living. We are paying council taxes for reduced local services, and making us travel further for recycling services only adds insult to injury.

In light of these factors, it is crucial that Wiltshire Council reconsiders its decision to close Purton Recycling Centre. Reversing this decision will demonstrate a commitment to sustainable living, community wellbeing, and fiscal responsibility.

Sign this petition to urge Wiltshire Council to keep Purton Recycling Centre open, preserving our access to essential recycling services, reducing the likelihood of environmental harm, and supporting the community's overall livelihood.