Booking system set for tips run by council

Residents in west Northamptonshire will have to book a slot at the tip from November

A booking system for recycling centres is set to be introduced by West Northamptonshire Council.

A spokesperson said the scheme would be introduced on 3 November for its six tips in the area.

They said the move would reduce queues as well as easing pressure on surrounding roads. The centres started opening seven days a week earlier this year.

Nigel Stansfield, the council's cabinet member for environment, recycling and waste, said: "We know that the introduction of this new system may take some residents time to get used to but it is designed to make visits to our recycling centres a more pleasant and efficient experience."

The Reform UK-led council said bookings could be made up to two weeks in advance or on the day at least 30 minutes before arrival.

Only west Northamptonshire residents will have access to the booking system but trade customers and those who live outside the area will have the option to pay for the service.

The authority said people without access to the online system would be able to book via telephone.

Stansfield added that residents had previously raised issues about the access to sites and queues.

"By managing demand and making sure that those using the facilities live in west Northamptonshire, we can reduce traffic, improve safety, and ensure our sites are used fairly and responsibly," he said.