The recycling centres in Bracknell and  Reading have been closed to the public following the government’s announcement of a lockdown last night.

Longshot Lane, Bracknell, and Island Road, Reading, both run by re3, are now closed until further notice.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced restrictions on movement and non-essential gatherings last night at 8.30pm.

READ MORE: Wokingham Borough Council writes off £720,000 in unpaid debt

People across the UK can now only leave their houses for essential food shopping, visiting a pharmacy, essential work that cannot be done from home, and one run, cycle or walk per day.

A spokesman for re3 said: “This decision has not been taken lightly, but we must now all play our part, stay home to save lives and protect the vulnerable, elderly and the NHS.

“Re3 will work with its contractor to redeploy staff and maintain effective receipt of waste from collection services and operate as efficiently as possible.

“We will review this decision after the initial three-week period, taking into account the government advice at the time.

READ MORE: Courtney Buses services reduced amid coronavirus outbreak

“During this time, we are asking residents to maximise the kerbside collections and hold-on to any inert waste they may have. We are grateful to all residents for their understanding.”

The government will review the lockdown in three weeks to decide whether to continue with the strict measures.