Since its launch last month, over 26,000 vehicles have been registered on the new system at Barkers Lane Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), according to Bedford Borough Council.
The new free online system has replaced the previous permit process for some vehicles and materials and protects the HWRC from being used by people from outside the borough.
Under the new scheme, Bedfordians can register up to two vehicles to their Bedford Borough address, with cars and pickups registered for two years and vans for six months.
Drivers should continue to bring proof of their Bedford Borough address when visiting, as they may be asked to show it. This could be a driving licence, or a current Council Tax bill with photo identification showing their name.
Read: Number plate checks brought in at Barkers Lane tip to stop out-of-towners dumping waste
Businesses turned away
Bedford Borough Council says that a number of businesses from outside the borough have already been turned away.
These include a care home from Cambridge, which was turned away after attempting to use the HWRC rather than proper business waste routes.
The Council has also spoken to landlords, property agents and other businesses who were unaware of how they should dispose of waste from their properties, helping them understand the rules and use the appropriate service.
Businesses should use commercial disposal services rather than routes intended for local Council Tax payers.
People from outside the borough have also been directed to use HWRCs in the areas where they pay their Council Tax.
Cllr Nicky Gribble (Independent/Renhold and Ravensden), portfolio holder for environment, said: “We are pleased that more than 26,000 vehicles have registered in the first month, and that residents have found the process easy to use.
“This system protects the HWRC for the Bedford Borough residents who pay for it. The previous permit system could take up to ten working days for some vehicles and materials.
“The new process is quicker and simpler for residents, while helping us stop businesses and people from outside the borough using a service funded by local taxpayers.
“We have already seen a reduction in misuse. Businesses, landlords and property agents who need to dispose of waste from their properties should use the proper commercial routes.”
If a Bedford Borough resident can’t visit the HWRC in person and needs support from someone outside the borough to take their household waste, they should contact Customer Services in advance.
The Council can issue written permission.
Bedfordians can register a vehicle, read the terms and conditions and find full information about the HWRC at bedford.gov.uk/HWRC.
