Recycling centre booking system coming this autumn

North Somerset Council are forcing people to plan their visits to the recycling centre in advance, thanks to a new booking system being introduced later this year.

North Somerset Council say the system will make visits faster, safer and more efficient.

This autumn, a new online booking system will be introduced for Weston-super-Mare, Backwell and Portishead recycling centres. It will be rolled out in stages, starting with Weston-super-Mare, followed by Backwell and Portishead.

It’s also expected to deliver environmental and financial benefits by cutting carbon emissions from idling vehicles, reducing unauthorised use by people from outside the area, and making sure commercial and DIY waste is managed correctly.

Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment, said: “Alongside our comprehensive kerbside collections, the recycling centres are an important way for our residents to get rid of their unwanted items responsibly.

“By introducing a simple, quick online booking system, we can reduce queues, make visits easier, and ensure our sites are working as efficiently as possible for everyone.

“Essential repairs are needed at Weston-super-Mare’s recycling centre later this year, so having a booking system in place will also help to manage the site safely and keep queues to a minimum during this period. This change brings us in line with our neighbouring authorities who all have successful and well-liked booking systems in place.’’

More details, including how to book, will be shared nearer the time to help residents get their visits planned in.

The change is part of the council’s wider efforts to improve services, reduce waste and respond to the climate emergency. It supports commitments in North Somerset’s Waste Strategy and Climate Emergency Action Plan.

You can check opening times, see what you can bring, and find answers to common questions about the new booking system at: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/recyclingcentres

The council’s free app is also available to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.