The conversion of one of the city's recycling centres into a drive-through donation hub is proving successful.

The site in Swanton Road, Mile Cross was given a new lease of life in June to boost a charity which provides vital support for vulnerable children and young people.

More than 500 people have visited Norwich Reuse Drop Off Centre to donate pre-loved items, resulting in over 60 tonnes of reusable items finding a new home since its opening.

Norwich Evening News: FCC Environment and The Benjamin Foundation opened the new reuse initiative at Norwich's former tip in Swanton Road in June 2022FCC Environment and The Benjamin Foundation opened the new reuse initiative at Norwich's former tip in Swanton Road in June 2022 (Image: SWNS)

The centre is the first of its kind in the UK and benefits Norfolk-based charity The Benjamin Foundation.

The transformation was made possible by the charity in partnership with FCC Environment, creating a drive-through facility to make re-use in Norwich more accessible and convenient.

Labour councillors Cate Oliver, Ian Stutely and Jacob Huntley recently visited the site.

Cllr Oliver, cabinet member for environmental services, said: "The site is inspiring. It allows the people of Norwich to conveniently donate unwanted items which have a second useful life, supporting local families and creating social value.

Norwich Evening News: Cllr Cate OliverCllr Cate Oliver (Image: Norwich City Council)

"I am amazed by the number of products available to the public which would have ordinarily been recycled or thrown away.

"The site adds social value, raises essential funds for a local charity and importantly reduces the carbon footprint through re-use."

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Pre-loved items are sorted with good quality furniture and household items being sold in The Benjamin Foundation furniture stores to raise money to support the charity’s work.

Liam Bould, regional development manager at FCC Environment, is encouraging those living in and around the area to come to the centre with their unwanted items - as well as those in need of a little TLC.

"The site has been a success since opening but we are only scratching the surface," he said.

"The more visitors the better.

"The site is two-fold; members of the public can drop off items which have a second useful life and there is an appliance refurbishment operation."

The site is open from Wednesday to Sunday every week and was converted after the opening of the Norwich North Recycling Centre near the Cromer Road junction of the NDR.

A list of accepted items can be found at swantonreuse.fccenvironment.co.uk/accepted-items.