Booking system planned for household tips

People taking rubbish and recycling to household tips in Dorset will have to book a time slot from the autumn.

The booking system aims to ease congestion at recycling centres during peak times and make visits quicker with shorter waits.

Similar systems are already in place in other parts of the country, including neighbouring Hampshire.

But some residents and opposition councillors have responded negatively, calling the plan "unnecessary" and predicting it will result in more fly-tipping.

Residents will be able to choose a half-hour slot to visit a household recycling centre (HRC) up to two weeks in advance, although the council said it anticipated most people would book on the day of their visit.

Dorset's councillor for place services, Jon Andrews, said: "It works well in other places.

"Many of our sites, especially at Dorchester and Wimborne, experience long periods of queuing and crowding that cause frustration for visitors, nearby residents, and local businesses.

"This system will improve the overall customer experience by preventing these problems."

But Beaminster councillor Craig Monks said the plan "seeks to solve a problem that doesn't exist".

He said: "This unnecessary red tape will frustrate residents, discourage recycling, and, most worryingly, risks leading to an increase in fly-tipping across our countryside and rural lanes."

Dorset Council said there was no evidence that fly tipping levels would be affected by the plan.

Mr Andrews said: "We understand people will need to get used to something new, and there will be a period of adjustment for many people who have become accustomed to the current process.

"But a few extra minutes at home booking a slot before loading up your vehicle with waste will potentially save you much longer delays when you arrive at the HRC, leading to a better experience for everyone."

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