HUNDREDS of tonnes of scrap metal were left for recycling at the weekend. Between 10 and 12 tonnes of batteries and hundreds of washing machines and fridges also helped make Public Services’ first trial at Longue Hougue a huge success.

‘Far more has been brought than we ever anticipated and we are delighted,’ said minister Bill Bell.

‘We weren’t sure if the skips last year had got rid of everyone’s scrap metal. The important thing is that this metal is not going to the tip. This will now go for export and recycling.’

More than 1,000 vehicles visited the site, which was manned by States Works staff. It will open again during the weekend of 12 and 13 May, after which the department will consider whether to continue with the scheme.

Deputy Bell said there would be a financial implication if that was to happen. ‘It’s going to cost us money, but recycling comes at a price.

‘But I believe recycling is what the community wants us to do and doing so is extending the life of the tip, which is very valuable in itself.’

The Guernsey Recycling Advisory Forum was involved in the scheme and member Vanessa Crispini-Adams said the site at Longue Hougue was much more suitable than the skips placed around the island in last year’s trial.

‘If it proves popular, we need to see how often the public needs this type of facility,’ she said.

‘I think once a quarter would be a good idea because there is no other option for people to dispose of their metal.’

Mrs Crispini-Adams talked to islanders as they dumped their metal.

‘I was trying to get some public reaction to this trial and also take the opportunity to talk to people about recycling and what facilities they think the island needs.’