If you want to go to Bedford tip, you'll have to register your vehicle from now on
From October, if you want to dump your unwanted household waste at Bedford tip, you’ll have to register your vehicle first.
In a move which will no doubt infuriate many, Bedford council is introducing a free online vehicle registration system at the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) on Barkers Lane.
It says it’s to protect the site from misuse by businesses and people from outside the borough.
Neighbouring Central Beds has a not too dissimilar system where people have to show ID to prove they live in the area.
Kicking off from Thursday, October 1, residents using the HWRC for household waste will need to register their vehicle's number plate ONLINE for free.
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.
In a statement from the council, it says Bedford has had a significant increase in tonnage at Barkers Lane, much of it from people outside the area – as well as businesses not entitled to use the household waste service.
It says this puts strain on the council's waste budget and has led to long queues, particularly during peak periods.
If you don’t have access to the web, the council merely says you should register by contacting customer services. You can reach them on 01234 267422.
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.
The current permit system is being replaced by this new vehicle registration. From October 1, you’ll 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. Just register your number plate online before you visit.
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.
"It is unfair to residents and responsible businesses if household facilities are used to avoid commercial waste costs."