Work to demolish the burnt-out Taunton recycling centre began on Monday, October 30.

A blaze took hold of the site on October 3, and continued to burn for days afterward. The inferno prompted a large-scale response by the fire brigade, with crews called called from stations in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Martock, Clyst St George, and Exeter as well as Wellington and Wiveliscombe.

A subsequent survey of the Priorswood site by engineers found it would be unsafe for the public to reenter, and recommended demolition.

The fire broke out in the material recovery facility, with the remainder of the site said to be unsafe to reopen until the facility is brought down.

Somerset Council said the work would take between one or two weeks to complete.

While the site is out of action recycling centres at Wellington and Bridgwater will remain open seven days a week, boosted by staff redeployed from the Taunton site.

Commenting, Councillor Dixie Darch, Lead Member for Environment and Climate Change said: “We know the closure of the site has been frustrating for many residents. We are pleased that we are getting closer to safely reopening the site. We thank you for your patience during this time.”

The council said the cause of the fire had still to be determined.