Got furniture too good to bin? Kent launches new reuse container to give your old stuff a second chance!
New Reuse Container Opens at Tovil Waste Centre
Kent County Council has teamed up with local charity 1 Making a Difference Maidstone (MADM) to launch a dedicated reuse container at the Tovil Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC). This clever new initiative lets residents drop off unwanted but still usable furniture — think chairs, tables, wardrobes, and bookcases — instead of chucking it away.
Furniture Gets a Second Life, Helping Locals in Need
The reuse container officially opened this week and will run as a six-month trial. Furniture donated will either be sold in MADM’s charity shops to fund their outreach work or gifted directly to local people going through tough times.
MADM supports referrals from social services, probation, Kent Police, housing associations, churches and more, offering not just furniture but advocacy and practical help to those in crisis.
Council & Charity Back The Green Cause
Susan Carey, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
“This trial has multiple benefits. It gives usable furniture a new lease of life, reduces waste, and supports a brilliant cause. I’m proud to partner with MADM at Tovil HWRC. If you can’t bring your items, MADM might be able to collect them for reuse.”
Carey added this is just the start: “More reuse projects are coming soon to Kent’s recycling centres.”
MADM founder Amanda Sidwell said: “We’re thrilled to work with KCC waste management and the community to make a real difference.”
How to Use the Reuse Container
- Bring your reusable furniture to Tovil HWRC during opening hours.
- If you can’t transport items, contact MADM for potential collection.
- Remember to book your visit online before going.
