A NEW shop selling recovered items at a waste disposal centre was described by the council as a ’Menagerie of treasures’ when opened on October 4th.

The county’s first household waste reuse shop is based at the Llanfoist Household Waste and Recycling centre and was officially opened on Friday, October 4th by Council chair, Councillor Shelia Woodhouse, and Councillor Jane Pratt.

 The council have stated the Shop’s purpose is to contribute to a commitment to tackling climate change. In May, Monmouthshire County Councillors unanimously passed a motion declaring a climate emergency.

This set out a clear policy commitment for the council to strive to reduce its own carbon emissions to zero by 2030; to encourage others to reduce their carbon emissions and work with partners in limiting global warming to less than 1.5 °C.

 Since opening its doors in June, the reuse shop has already diverted seven tonnes of material from the waste stream and back into use. The Shop’s second purpose will see all profits made from sales go to supporting climate change initiatives such as tree planting, community orchards and community gardens projects. Since June £10,000 has been raised.

 The daily running of the shop is supported by volunteers and the council is calling on more people to come and volunteer at the shop to expand the service. This can be helping with sales and general assistance around the unit.

The council is now encouraging residents to not only come and visit the shop to see what bargains they can find but also to bring any unwanted household items such as furniture, kitchenware or tools to the shop so it can find a new home.

The Shop also provides great ideas for anyone who may enjoy upcycling or art projects.

 Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Jane Pratt said, ’I’m delighted to officially open Monmouthshire’s very first reuse shop.

’To see items that would usually end up on landfill find a new home is wonderful and it’s also just another step in the council’s commitment to tackling climate change. It’s also fantastic to see that the shop offers volunteering opportunities.’  The Shop is open on Thursday and Friday between 10am and 2pm.

For more information visit: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/reuse-shop.