THERE was plenty to celebrate at the official opening of a new Kernow Reuse shop near Liskeard recently.

Based at Connon Bridge Household Waste and Recycling Centre in East Taphouse, the new shop offers the opportunity for residents to donate unwanted items and purchase pre-loved items at a more affordable price.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the opening of the Connon Bridge store, as well as to celebrate the announcement that over 1,000 tonnes of reusable goods has been saved since the launch of Kernow Reuse in 2024.

Operated by SUEZ Recycling and Recovery, on behalf of Cornwall Council, the reuse shops have helped local families access affordable household items, with more than 167,000 items being given a second lease of life.

The opening of the Connon Bridge store will help Kernow Reuse in it’s effort to keep valuable resources in circulation, while supporting Cornwall's transition to a more circular economy.

Connon Bridge, along with another newly-launched store in Newquay, are the latest additions to growing list of reuse shops dotted around the Duchy. Other shops of the same kind are located in Truro, St Austell, Launceston, Falmouth, United Downs, St Erth, Helston and Bude.

Rebecca Parry, Reuse Manager at SUEZ, said "Reaching 1,000 tonnes of items saved from disposal while expanding to 10 reuse shops is a fantastic achievement and highlights the growing enthusiasm for reuse across Cornwall. We're delighted to see more communities embracing reuse and helping drive Cornwall's circular economy."

Councillor Loic Rich, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, said "Reaching 1,000 tonnes is a remarkable achievement and demonstrates the positive impact Cornish residents are making every day. Whether donating unwanted items or shopping pre-loved, people are helping reduce waste, save money and support a more sustainable Cornwall.”