As the Easter weekend approaches, residents of Cheshire East are preparing for a surge in visitors to household waste recycling centres, and local retailers are adjusting their opening hours accordingly. With the long weekend from April 18 to April 21, 2025, many are eager to spring clean and tackle home projects, but both waste disposal and shopping may require some planning.
Cheshire East Council has issued guidance for residents planning to visit household waste recycling centres during the busy Easter period. On April 17, the council advised that these centres are expected to experience an influx of visitors, typical for this time of year as people engage in spring cleaning and gardening activities. Residents are encouraged to consider visiting at other times if possible, as the demand for services is likely to peak.
For those who must visit during the Easter weekend, the council emphasized the importance of booking a slot in advance, especially for visits on weekends or during bank holidays. "Booking a slot is quick and easy and can be done via the council's website," they noted. This proactive approach is essential to manage the expected crowds and maintain safety.
Residents should also be aware that the recycling centres are likely to be particularly busy on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. To avoid long wait times, the council recommends visiting later in the week. Additionally, from April to September, the centres will remain open until 6 PM on weekdays (excluding bank holidays), with quieter times typically occurring later in the day. However, the busiest hours are generally between 11 AM and 2 PM, so planning visits outside these times may lead to a smoother experience.
Moreover, the council warned that, due to traffic management issues, sites might need to close at short notice if safety becomes a concern. Residents are advised to stay updated through the council's communications.
While many residents are gearing up for recycling, the Easter weekend also presents an opportunity for shopping. Popular high-street retailers are adjusting their opening hours in response to the holiday. The Easter weekend spans from April 18 to April 21, with Easter Sunday falling on April 20. Notably, Easter Sunday is not classified as a bank holiday in the UK, unlike Good Friday and Easter Monday.
According to the GOV.UK calendar, shops in England and Wales that are larger than 280 square metres are required by law to close on Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. This regulation will affect several well-known retailers. For instance, B&M stores in England and Wales will be closed on Easter Sunday, while their Scottish counterparts will remain open. Other retailers like Home Bargains, The Range, and Dunelm will also observe the closure on Easter Sunday.
Primark is another major retailer that will close its stores on Easter Sunday. However, shoppers can still take advantage of shopping opportunities on Good Friday and Saturday, as well as on Easter Monday. It is important for customers to check individual store hours online, as they can vary by location.
In contrast, Greggs, the beloved bakery chain known for its pastries and sausage rolls, will operate as usual on Easter Sunday, although some larger branches may close. Customers can use the Greggs online Shop Finder to determine if their local branch will be open, ensuring they can satisfy their cravings for baked goods during the holiday.
As shoppers plan their Easter weekend, many will be looking for meals and drinks outside the home, and Wetherspoons pubs are ready to welcome customers. The pub chain has confirmed that it will maintain regular opening hours throughout the Easter weekend, including Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Bank Holiday Monday. Typically, Wetherspoons opens at 8 AM and closes between midnight and 1 AM, with extended hours from Thursday to Sunday.
Wetherspoons is also known for its affordable food and drink offers. Although there are no specific Easter deals, patrons can enjoy breakfast for just £2.99 and take advantage of free hot drink refills for £1.56. The pub also features popular promotions such as steak club and curry club, making it an attractive option for those looking to dine out over the holiday.
As the Easter weekend draws near, residents and shoppers alike are reminded to plan ahead. Whether it’s managing visits to recycling centres or navigating the varied opening hours of local shops and pubs, a little foresight can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience.
In summary, the Easter weekend in Cheshire East will be bustling, with increased activity at recycling centres and adjustments in retail hours. Residents are encouraged to book their visits in advance, while shoppers should check the opening hours of their favorite stores to make the most of the long weekend.
