Norfolk tips to introduce time slots from November

Conservative-controlled Norfolk County Council intends to start the controversial booking system at all 19 of its recycling centres in the run-up to Christmas.

Critics have slammed the move, saying it will discourage people from recycling and could trigger a surge in fly-tipping.

But the council says it needs to make the change to reduce costs, with the authority facing an extra bill of up to £1m because the government abolished some of the fees charged for getting rid of household DIY waste.

The county council announced last September it was considering the time slot system - which is already running in neighbouring Suffolk - but has now confirmed when that will begin.

James Bensly (Image: Norfolk Conservatives)

James Bensly, cabinet member for environment and growth at Norfolk County Council, said: "A new booking system is currently in development and will be introduced at all Norfolk Recycling Centres in November.

"Residents and traders will be able to book up two weeks in advance, all the way up to the next available 15-minute slot.

"Anyone who does not have access to the internet will be able to book via our customer care telephone number.

"The booking system will reduce waiting times at recycling centres and allow staff to help more visitors, leading to a much better customer experience.

"It will also enable the recycling centres to run more efficiently by spreading out usage across the opening hours, which will help reduce costs."

But Dan Roper, Liberal Democrat county councillor, said he feared the move could put people off heading to the county's tips.

He said: "This is yet another restriction on when and how people can dispose of their waste and is very disappointing.

"The council must ensure that customer numbers and the volume of waste do not reduce because of this change.

"Any booking scheme must also be available to everyone and not just be online."

Dan Roper (Image: Dan Roper)

The county council's cabinet agreed earlier this month to close recycling centres on Wednesdays to save £200,000 a year, as part of a £42m package of cuts and savings.

The council is spending £1.65m on a new recycling centre in Sheringham, but last year agreed to shut Mayton Wood Recycling Centre, near Coltishall, to save £70,000.