The West Country and Wales were hit particularly hard by the storm which struck the UK on 15 February, with strong winds and heavy rain continuing to lash the country during the past week.
Herefordshire council has introduced temporary measures to help residents dispose of water-damaged items. The council is collecting flood-damaged household items from outside residents’ houses.
The need for a permit for a commercial vehicle at all household recycling centres in Herefordshire has been waived until 1 March for any resident needing to dispose of flood-damaged items.
Normal rules prohibiting the use of household recycling centres by businesses and the deposit of commercial waste still apply.
Rhondda Cynon Taf
In the five valleys that make up the Welsh county of Rhondda Cynon Taf, the council’s Streetcare team is helping clear up the mess caused by the flooding as a matter of priority.
A statement from the council reads: “The council’s dedicated Streetcare team are out and about across the county borough helping to clean up the devastating mess left behind by the recent flooding.
“This will remain a priority for the team for the foreseeable future.
“This may result in some minor delays to refuse and recycling collections and routine cleansing jobs, as staff have been re-deployed to deal with the flooding clean-up.
Free special collections and replacement wheelie bins are available to affected residents in the region.
Monmouthshire
In Monmouthshire, the council has encouraged residents to use the county’s waste and recycling centres to dispose of any items that might have been damaged in the floods.
The council estimates more than 100 residential properties and several businesses have begun their recovery processes after devastation by flood water.
Council leader Peter Fox said: “As we begin to move into the recovery operation of these dreadful floods, it’s important residents and businesses take the advice we’ve issued to ensure they keep themselves safe and reduce the risk of other potential issues such as the spread of disease.”
Shropshire
Shropshire council, in an area which has seen ongoing flooding, has advised residents that the Environment Agency has information about cleaning houses as well as details of organisations that can help you do this. It also notes: “National Health England also has a useful leaflet on how to clean up after a flood (PDF). Unless they are contaminated, you can dispose of most water-damaged items at one of our household recycling centres. Ask the staff there if you need any help.”
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