Killingworth residents have expressed mixed feelings about the prospect of a new recycling centre in North Tyneside, with many welcoming the idea but raising concerns about its potential location and environmental effects.
In May, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) reported that plans for a new recycling centre in the North West of the area took major steps forward. In 2025, the council announced it had set aside £100,000 for a feasibility study into a new facility, and as of May this year, the council confirmed that designs for the facility had been developed and that further technical advice was being sought.
Historical Controversy
The prospect of a new recycling centre has historically stoked controversy in North Tyneside Council’s chamber, with opposition Conservatives branding it “unnecessary”. Reform UK’s Killingworth councillor Brian Smith stated he had not encountered a resident in his constituency who had expressed “any interest” in such proposals.
However, when the LDRS went to Killingworth to gauge public reaction, people were broadly supportive, though they had concerns about where exactly in the North West it would be located.
Resident Opinions
Craig Fender, 49, of Killingworth, said: “I had heard there was a bit of commotion about it, to do with waste, smell and pollution.” He added: “I mean, they are always useful if they are well run. I love a tip run, they’re great for clearing stuff out. I don’t drive, so anything nearby would be great as long as they don’t cause any environmental problems.”
Neil Watson, 40, said: “I think we need as much as we can get, anything that would clean up the area.”
Terry Hopps, 73, said: “I think whatever is best for the environment and the wildlife in the area, wherever it goes, it will be taking something away.” He continued: “You can’t be NIMBYs and say you can’t have it in my backyard if it’s necessary, it is necessary and we have to have it.” Terry added: “Of course, people would use it, it is different for someone my age, you don’t produce all that much waste, but if you’re people with families, it’s different.”
Jacqui Robson, 61, said: “Personally, it depends where it is, if it’s going near where I live, absolutely not.” She also noted that there is already a monthly tip-like collection point in Killingworth that is in use.
Ashley McMeekin, 60, said: “I am a bit mixed, I think we could, but it depends where you put it, and maybe it could stop the fly tipping. Between here and North Shields, you find lots of rubbish if you go down the country lane. I know people do it, and they get fines, but it doesn’t seem to stop people.”
The council's feasibility study, funded by the £100,000 allocation, continues to develop designs and seek technical advice, with no final decision on the location or timeline for the new recycling centre.
