An initiative from five local authorities could see an island repair and restoration service of its own, similar to ‘The Repair Shop’.
The Eastern Civic Amenity Site Joint Committee is seeking applications from qualified and experienced organisations or individuals who would be interested in providing such a service for damaged items which are left at the Middle Park facility but still retain some re-use value.
Operated by Douglas City Council on behalf of the local authority and neighbouring Onchan, Braddan, Santon and Garff Commissioners, the complex plays a significant role in recycling and re-using household waste.
Fix-it
As well as providing capacity for the disposal of domestic waste, the re-use shed is one of the best used areas at the ECAS and the Committee believes there’s real potential to repair items for re-use that would ordinarily be destined for waste skips.
A Council spokesperson says there’s a real opportunity to engage with a group or individuals who have the necessary skillsets and experience:
“For some time now, the shed at the Eastern Civic Amenity Site has been a hive of activity from members of the public, both for those who drop items off and those who look to see what is up for grabs and can still be put to good use.
“The opening of the large and lighter shed in the summer of 2023 has only led to increased interest in such a valuable resource but one which also reduces waste.
“At a committee meeting, members were discussing its popularity and felt it lends itself to running a venture similar to the Repair Shop concept which is a sustainable antidote to the throwaway culture.
Douglas Council spokesperson
“The facility is a fantastic way to reduce waste, reuse items before they become waste and repurpose items which would not normally go to a charity shop, saving tonnes from being unnecessarily disposed of.
“Sometimes items simply need a lick of paint or some basic repair work so we would like to put this resource to even better use and hear from anyone interested in getting involved in this project to come forward.”
Hear From You
The Committee wants to hear from companies and individuals that can provide a high-quality repair service for a range of items which are often dropped off at the re-use shed and could include household appliances, toys, furniture, fitness equipment and tools.
Interested Parties will initially be required to apply for inclusion on a select list providing details of themselves or their organisation, their relative experience and their capacity.
More information is available by contacting the Contractor: ACrook@douglas.gov.im by 5pm on June 24.
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