Residents have been expressing their gratitude to Craven District Council’s waste collection teams with ‘thank you’ notes, cards and pictures this week.

The Council’s waste collection service is operating as normal and bin crews have been delighted with the support they have received from residents – from a safe distance.

Councillor Richard Foster, Leader of Craven District Council, said: “It’s been brilliant for our waste collection teams to receive so much support from residents this week. People have been waving and smiling, leaving notes and posters, and writing supportive comments on social media.

“We know people are very grateful for the service our teams are providing at this difficult time. I’d just like to remind residents not to approach collection crews or refuse vehicles while they are out on collection rounds as it’s important we maintain social distancing. But please do continue to express your thanks from a safe distance!”

The government has issued guidance about the handling of waste, especially from households where someone has tested positive for, or is showing the symptoms of, the coronavirus.

Waste such as used tissues or cleaning cloths should now be double-bagged and be put aside for 72 hours before being put out for collection, even if you have a wheelie bin.

All household waste centres in Craven are closed to ensure the safety of staff and to discourage unnecessary travel. This does not affect household waste and recycling collections.

Craven District Council’s bulky waste collection service is currently still operating. If you have bulky waste for recycling or disposal either hold onto it until the Household Waste Recycling Centres are open again or arrange a bulky waste collection.

Commercial waste payments have been suspended for three months, although the service continues to operate as normal. This will be reviewed again after three months.

Updated information on the status of Council services is available at www.cravendc.gov.uk/coronavirus

The Council telephone lines are operating as normal. Due to Government advice, the council closed its Customer Service Reception to walk-in visitors from 5pm on March 23rd.

If you have any enquiries please call the council on 01756 700600, email contactus@cravendc.gov.uk or go to www.cravendc.gov.uk

Council tax payments can be made online at https://www.cravendc.gov.uk/pay/

Any member of the public who absolutely needs to speak to someone in person will be offered the opportunity to make an appointment.