Bedford Borough Council is introducing a free online vehicle registration system at the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) on Barkers Lane to protect the site from misuse by businesses and people from outside the Borough.
From Thursday, 1 October, residents using the HWRC for household waste will need to register their vehicle's number plate online. Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. A car or pickup can be registered for two years, a van for six months, and a hired vehicle for 24 hours. Residents will receive an email to remind them to renew their registration toward the end of the registration period. The existing ANPR camera at the entrance will automatically check each vehicle and alert staff if one arrives without being registered. Once registered, residents can visit during normal opening hours without an appointment.
Many neighbouring authorities now operate stronger controls at their HWRCs, and Bedford Borough has since seen a significant increase in tonnage at Barkers Lane, much of it from people outside the Borough and businesses not entitled to use the household waste service. This is placing strain on the Council's waste budget and has led to long queues, particularly during peak periods.
Residents who are less digitally able can register by contacting Customer Services. Registration allows a single-axle trailer (less than 1.8m long by 1.2m wide) with a car or pickup, but not a van. A maximum of two vehicles may be registered per address. Some vehicles are not permitted on site, including box vans, vehicles with more than four wheels, tippers and twin-axle trailers. Full details can be found at www.bedford.gov.uk/HWRC
The current permit system is being replaced by this simpler vehicle registration. From Thursday, 1 October, you no longer need a separate permit for a fridge/freezer, car tyres, DIY waste, or for visiting in a van, pickup or flatback, or with a single-axle trailer. Simply register your number plate online before you visit.
The HWRC is a taxpayer-funded service for Bedford Borough residents to dispose of household waste produced at their own home. Registrations must not be used for trade, business, landlord, contractor or third-party waste. All businesses have a legal duty of care to dispose of their waste safely and lawfully, and misuse may lead to enforcement action, including fines and prosecution. The HWRC also accepts mixed commercial waste on a pre-booked, charged basis. For business waste services, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/CommercialServices
Councillor Nicky Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said, "This free vehicle registration system will protect a Council Tax-funded service for the people who pay for it. Residents will not need to book a time slot, and once registered, they can visit during normal opening hours. The ANPR camera checks registrations automatically. It is unfair to residents and responsible businesses if household facilities are used to avoid commercial waste costs. This system will reduce inappropriate waste, save the Council money, and improve access for residents."