Recycling centre booking system trial set up

A booking system is being trialled at a council's recycling centres in a bid to avoid queues at peak times.

Plymouth City Council said evidence from similar schemes at other local authorities had demonstrated "a range of operational benefits" including improved traffic management and reduced queueing.

It is expected to be introduced at the council's sites at Chelson Meadow and Weston Mill with the trial set to cost £26,000, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

A report from the council said demand fluctuated significantly throughout the day, week and year at the centres which led to periods of congestion and "significant traffic queues".

"These queues can affect the operation of the adjacent commercial weighbridge at Chelson Meadow, which is used by commercial customers and council operational vehicles," the report said.

"At busy times, council vehicles can experience delays entering and exiting the facility, impacting service efficiency.

"Queuing also has a wider impact on the surrounding highway network."

A similar system was introduced by Cornwall Council and has been running since 2024.

People who want to pre-book a slot will be able to do so online or via a telephone service.

The authority said Cornwall Council reported reductions in queues at its three busiest sites with feedback from people who used the booking system being overwhelmingly positive.

It added it also believed the system could make savings from a reduction in the inappropriate use of the centres.

"While the primary purpose of the trial is to assess operational and customer service impacts, the evaluation will also consider the extent to which the financial benefits are realised," the council said.

Reports of fly-tipping throughout the trial period will be monitored as part of the overall evaluation.

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