The Reuse Shop at Priorswood Recycling Site is open again, after shutting in March 2023.
This shop helps the environment and is located at the recycling site. The shop stops usable items from being wasted, preventing recycling or disposal of these things.
The Reuse Shop first opened back in 2013. It closed ten years later after a loss. Bob Bowyer now runs the shop for Biffa, the site contractor.
The shop accepts good quality items, including books, bikes, toys, and games. You can also find furniture, CDs, and DVDs, alongside sports equipment, crockery, and cutlery. They don’t take electrical or gas appliances, nor are safety items permitted.
Reusing is better than recycling and throwing things away. Reusing reduces the need for new items and keeps valued materials from going to waste.
Richard Wilkins, a Somerset Council member focusing on transport and waste, spoke about the shop. He said extending item lifespans protects the environment, and many people love the local shop.
The shop is now open and encourages donation to other places too. Charity shops and reuse groups are good options, plus people can also give items away online using Freecycle or Freegle services.
The shop’s hours vary by season. From October to March, it’s open weekdays 9am to 5pm. From April to September, it’s 9am to 6pm. It opens weekends at 9am and closes at 4pm.