RESIDENTS in parts of Teignbridge may notice changes to their local textile bank service as eight Salvation Army banks are due to be removed.

The Salvation Army Trading Company has provided a textile recycling service across Devon since 2016.

However, following a strategic review of its clothing bank network in response to changing market conditions, the Salvation Army is adjusting its clothing bank network

‘This change will enable us to use our resources more effectively to manage the unsustainable volumes of used textiles across the UK’, the Salvation Army Trading Company said in a recent statement.

The statement goes on to say: ‘As part of this review, a number of clothing banks will be removed.

‘However, many other banks remain available for public use, and we continue to expand our network of more than 250 charity stores.

‘These changes allow us to maximise fundraising capabilities, minimise costs, and redirect resources to other impactful reuse and recycling services.

‘We are grateful for the continued support from members of the public, our donors and partners’.

The following banks will be removed by the end of January:

• The Strand Car Park, The Strand, Starcross Sandy;

• Lane Car Park, Sandy Lane, Dawlish;

• Barton Hill Car Park, Barton Hill, Dawlish Lower;

• Ness Car Park, Ness Drive, Shaldon;

• Jack’s Patch Garden Centre, Teignmouth Road, Bishopsteignton;

• Court Street Car Park, Betton Way, Moretonhampstead;

• Dawlish Warren Car Park, Beach Road, Dawlish Warren;

• Main Car Park, Off B3387, Widecombe-in-the-Moor

The Salvation Army Trading Company’s review follows a difficult period in the global textile market, which has been struggling for several years.

Fast fashion, and now ultra-fast fashion, has flooded the textile market with low quality and low value garments.

It’s estimated that more than two tonnes of clothing are bought each minute in the UK, more than any other country in Europe