Kent recycling centre rule changes to reduce congestion and 'level playing field' (From News Shopper)

Kent recycling centre rule changes to reduce congestion and 'level playing field'

10:27am Tuesday 11th September 2012 in News By Jim Palmer

Councillor Bryan Sweetland

CHANGES in the rules at recycling centres across Kent will reduce congestion and stop people using them for trade waste, Kent County Council hopes.

The restrictions come into force on October 1 and are the result of a 10-week consultation.

Trailers using the site must be shorter than 2.05m, narrower than the vehicle towing them and have a capacity less than 1 cubic metre. No horse boxes or agricultural trailers will be allowed.

A 90kg limit – equivalent to 33 bricks - on soil, rubbish and hardcore will be imposed, as will a small charge for tyres and asbestos.

Vans, pick-ups and vehicles taller than two metres will need a voucher to prove they are not commercial vehicles.

KCC cabinet member for waste Councillor Bryan Sweetland said: “The majority of Kent businesses dispose of their waste responsibly, however a very small minority are illegally using the Household Waste Recycling Centres.

“This equates to an estimated 25,000 tonnes of waste every year, which is a financial and environmental burden to the Kent council tax payer.

“Our approach contributes to a level playing field within the private sector, requiring all companies to pay for their waste disposal through licensed operators, which KCC will be actively signposting for businesses.”

Go to kent.gov.uk/hwrc for information.