Royal Wootton Bassett is the most likely site for the new centre for the north of the county, once facilities at Purton and at Lower Compton, near Calne, are closed next summer.
The future of recycling centres in north Wiltshire was debated by Wiltshire Council’s Liberal Democrat-led Cabinet on Tuesday (December 9).
There are 10 recycling centres in the county, and the council owns all but two, which are owned by Swindon-headquartered Hills Waste Services.
The meeting heard that the private operator is asking for an “unjustifiable” amount of money for the continued use of the sites after the current contract expires in July 2026.
The Cabinet – which was considering negotiating an extension whilst it consulted the public brough a new site into operation – instead voted to walk away from August 1.
A new site for the north on land owned by the council was promised – but it is unlikely to be operational before the end of 2028.
The costs involved were discussed behind closed doors because of commercial sensitivity – as were potential locations for the new recycling centre.
But two cabinet members let slip that Royal Wootton Bassett was the preferred site.
After the meeting, Cllr Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, confirmed to the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Royal Wootton Bassett is one of several potential sites we are considering for a new Household Recycling Centre in the North.
“Our priority is to identify a location that is practical and provides a suitable replacement for the facilities due to close in Purton and Lower Compton.
“We will carry out detailed assessments and surveys to ensure any chosen site meets the requirements for delivering a modern, efficient, and accessible recycling centre.
“If approved, we expect the new facility could open within the next three to four years, offering residents an improved service for the future.”
Wiltshire Council owns three pieces of land in Royal Wootton Bassett large enough to house a household recycling centre.
Assuming the authority does not want to pick a fight with the First XV at Royal Wootton Bassett Rugby Club, the likely sites are Scotland Farm or the Old Depot, both off Marlborough Road to the south of the town.
Both sites require crossing a narrow railway bridge from the town centre and are close to the route of the old canal, through which the Wilts & Berks Canal wants to restore the waterway.