TRIPS to the tip will have to be booked from next week as a new system comes into effect.

East Sussex County Council is introducing a booking system to all 10 of its household waste recycling sites on Monday, November 24.

It will help reduce misuse of the sites by traders and out of county residents and is predicted to save the taxpayer £50,000 a year.

Cllr Claire Dowling, the county council’s 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.”

Around half the councils in England now operate a booking system including West Sussex, Kent and Hampshire.  Feedback from these councils is positive, with residents feeling it works well.

Cllr Dowling added: “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.”

There will be no change to what can be disposed of at a Household Waste Recycling Site and no additional charges for East Sussex residents above the current charge for non-household waste including hardcore, soil, plasterboard and asbestos. Non-East Sussex residents can still book to use the sites subject to an out-of-county charge.

Everyone visiting a household waste recycling site must book from Monday, November 24. The quickest and easiest way to book is using the online booking system . Those who need help to book can call 0345 60 80 194.

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

More information about the introduction of a booking system can be found at About the booking system | East Sussex County Council

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