The future starts here for dead Dysons

Right now, we do not sell items left at the sites operated on behalf of West Sussex County Council, for two good reasons.

First, the facilities are pretty busy most of the time and sales at sites as they are could increase the time people spend there.

This could cause congestion and excessive queuing, which would detract from their primary function, which is to enable people to dispose of their household waste quickly and safely.

Second, any items sold must be safe. That means we must make sure robust systems are in place to protect our residents and would-be customers.

The sites are run under a recent long-term contract let, to provide significant improvements to waste management.

Already, five new or refurbished state-of-the-art sites, which are highly regarded by our residents, have been provided, with more on the way.

Once this programme has been completed, staff resources should be available to investigate how sales on our sites could be accommodated.

I can assure Mr Bicknell we are committed to exploring every possible way of reducing waste and encouraging re-use, recycling and restraint (in creating rubbish in the first place).

John de Mierre

cabinet member for strategic planning

West Sussex County Council

Editor's note: My Dyson packed up on Sunday. If you are reading this, Mr Bicknell, what part, exactly, do you need?