Blackburn with Darwen Council has partnered with SUEZ UK to offer people another option to get rid of unwanted items, while allowing the opportunity to buy something at a fraction of the shop price.

The shop is an addition to the existing ways to dispose of unwanted items at the borough’s two household waste and recycling centres (HWRCs).

It supports the council’s aim to increase recycling rates.

 By extending the life of items, this lowers the need for new materials to be used.

SUEZ, which runs the HWRC on behalf of the council, donates to several charities, including The Children’s Storehouse and Nightsafe, meaning the shop will also support the local community.

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s environment boss, Cllr Jim Smith, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to offer a brand-new option for residents of the borough to dispose of items that might have otherwise been thrown away.

“Having the Reuse Shop will not only mean that there’s a suitable outlet for items that are in good condition, but also gives the opportunity to others to buy them at a much lower cost than they would usually be.

“This fits with our ambition to deliver our climate emergency action plan, by allowing more items to be recycled, rather than potentially being sent to landfill.

“I look forward to seeing residents use the shop to its full potential.”

Victoria Crabtree, regional manager for SUEZ, said: “The new reuse shop is a simple but effective way of cutting waste.

“Every item sold here is something that hasn’t been thrown away and hasn’t needed to be replaced with something new.

“By working with Blackburn with Darwen Council, we are making it easier for residents to donate items they no longer need and for others to pick up good quality, affordable goods, while also supporting the council’s sustainability goals.”

The shop is open every day from 10am to 2pm, except Wednesdays.

Proof of address will need to be shown in the form of a council tax letter, utility bill or ID.