From Monday, November 24, East Sussex County Council will require residents to book in advance before visiting any of its 10 household waste recycling sites.
The scheme aims to reduce misuse by commercial operators and out-of-county visitors, and is expected to save taxpayers £50,000 a year.
Councillor Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment, said: “The new booking system is quick and easy to use, and residents will be able to book to visit on the same day or any time up to two weeks in advance.
“The misuse of our sites costs the taxpayer and, at a time when the council is facing increasing financial pressure, the money saved will help us protect services.
“As well as saving money, the new system will help us better manage queues at busy times and improve operations and safety.”
Similar schemes are already in place in areas including West Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire, with positive feedback from residents.
Councillor Dowling said: “I know there has been concern about the impact the booking system will have on incidents of fly-tipping, but neighbouring councils have reported no increase since introducing their systems.
“In 2023, work carried out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) found no link between the introduction of booking systems and fly-tipping, which is a criminal offence and can result in an unlimited fine and up to five years’ in prison.”
The new system will not affect what can be disposed of at the sites, and there are no extra charges for East Sussex residents beyond the existing fees for non-household waste such as hardcore, soil, plasterboard and asbestos.
Non-East Sussex residents can still book to use the sites, but will be subject to an out-of-county charge.
Residents arriving at waste recycling sites will be asked for their booking confirmation and proof they live in the county with identification such as a photocard driving licence or Council Tax bill.
Bookings can be made online or by calling 0345 60 80 194.
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