Archived decisions

HOUSEHOLD WASTE RECYCLING CENTRES

1 The Executive Member has given approval to the specification for a new Household Waste Recycling Centre contract, which will include

· enhanced customer service

· a new waste acceptance policy

· an automatic number plate recognition system and closed circuit television to control unauthorised use of the centres to deposit trade waste.

2 The 24 household waste recycling centres are operated on behalf of the County Council by contractors. The centres are popular and frequently used by the public, receiving over 4.5 million visits per annum. They achieve a re-use and recycling rate of 60% and account for over 50% of Project Integra's recycling performance. The vast majority of visits are by members of the public who wish to dispose of household waste. However, there is a minority of trade users who regularly visit the centre to deposit trade waste. This is illegal, can have has adverse effects on the service to the public where sites are busy and is a cost to the Council taxpayer.

3 In order to overcome the problems posed by unauthorised trade use, trade waste controls are being introduced. Currently, tenders are being sought for the installation of closed circuit television and an automatic number plate recognition system at the 24 centres, which will enable any unauthorised use to be monitored and appropriate enforcement action taken against offenders. The opportunity will also be taken to install height barriers at the entrance to recycling centres, in order to deter larger vehicles seeking access to deposit large volumes of waste. Permits will be available to households who only have access to a commercial vehicle, and there will be suitable exemptions to enable charities and voluntary organisations to dispose of their waste without charge.

4 In order to give clarity for all users, the Executive Member has also agreed a waste acceptance policy, which sets out for contractors and the public what materials will be accepted for recycling. Copies of the document have been placed in the Members' rooms.

5 A stronger focus on customer service and the changes to household waste recycling centres summarised above will enable the contractors to concentrate on providing an effective service to the public. Eliminating unauthorised trade use will enable queues to be reduced which should improve customer satisfaction. The centres will be renamed household recycling centres, thereby placing the focus on recycling and sustainability. They will be open slightly longer in March, with times as follows:

· 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. October to February

· 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. March

· 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. April to September

M. J. KENDAL

Executive Member for Environment

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