Dorset Council Revises Tip Booking Plans to Four Sites After Backlash

Dorset Council has revised its plan to introduce a booking system at all ten household recycling centres, deciding instead to implement it at only four sites: Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury, and Sherborne, following significant public backlash. The council aims to reduce congestion, prevent commercial misuse, and cut waste disposal costs, particularly addressing the high proportion of waste at Shaftesbury and Sherborne coming from outside the county, with non-residents required to pay an entry fee. While the remaining six centres will continue operating without slot bookings, the council plans to strengthen alternative measures against misuse and monitor the system's impact before considering a wider rollout. Local MPs and residents have welcomed the council's flexible approach, viewing it as a victory for common sense and a balanced response to community concerns. Councillor Jon Andrews emphasized that despite some residents' resistance to change, the booking system is necessary to avoid service cuts and maintain easy access across sites. The council will track booking availability, customer satisfaction, recycling rates, and fly-tipping changes to evaluate effectiveness and inform future decisions.