Reusing items is better for the environment than recycling them, because it requires no energy or processing, as the item is being used as it was originally intended and therefore getting a second chance.

When can I visit Bexley’s community reuse shop?

Bexley’s community reuse shop is opening on Friday 5 December and is based at Foots Cray reuse and recycling centre.

What will the reuse shop sell?

The reuse shop will sell good quality pre-loved items that are still in good usable condition and at affordable prices, such as:

• bicycles
• furniture
• electronics
• homeware
• household items such as hoovers

There is even an outside display area at the back of the shop - only accessible via the shop.

All items in the shop have been taken to one of the two reuse and recycling centres in Bexley as they are no longer wanted or needed, but they are in good enough condition to be reused, rather than recycled or thrown away.

Bexley’s community reuse shop is open to both residents and non-residents. There are a small number of parking spaces outside of the shop, so please do not park in the reuse and recycling centre. Alternatively, you can enter the site via the pedestrian gate, and the shop is on the left before you enter the reuse and recycling centre. 

Beware of site traffic as you cross the entrance road to get to the shop.

Bexley’s community reuse shop is a partnership initiative between London Borough of Bexley, Community Reuse and Countrystyle Recycling Ltd.

At Community Reuse, our aim is to keep good-quality items in use for as long as possible-reducing waste, supporting sustainability, and offering affordable goods to local residents.

The income generated through the Foots Cray Reuse Shop goes directly into running the service. This includes ensuring all staff are in properly paid, trained roles (not volunteers), as well as covering VAT and other essential operational costs that will keep the shop open and thriving.

If the shop generates a surplus, it is shared between Community Reuse and the London Borough of Bexley, with the Council's share helping to support local waste and recycling services.

We are also committed to growing what we do, expanding into more reuse, repair, and circular economy initiatives to give even more items a second life and benefit the community.