North Somerset Council is stepping up its efforts to improve waste recycling by introducing a new policy requiring staff at recycling centres to open and inspect rubbish bags. This initiative aims to ensure residents are not disposing of recyclable materials in general waste bins.
Later this year, dedicated “bag sorting areas” will be established at the council’s recycling centres in Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, and Backwell. Here, staff will have the authority to sift through rubbish brought to the tips, identifying and redirecting recyclable items. This hands-on approach is designed to reduce contamination in non-recyclable waste and encourage better recycling habits among residents.
Council officials emphasize that these inspections will also serve as an educational opportunity, helping the public understand what materials can be recycled and how to properly sort their waste.
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This development builds on recent improvements, including the introduction of a booking system at the Weston-super-Mare recycling centre in February, aimed at reducing queues, lowering carbon emissions, and improving user experience. By March, the booking system was extended to the Portishead and Backwell centres.
Responding to public feedback, the council has increased booking slots by 40 per day at the Weston-super-Mare site. Enforcement of the booking policy will now be more rigorously applied to ensure smooth and safe operations at all centres.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, cabinet member for planning and environment, noted: “We’re pleased with the positive response to the booking system and the improvements it has brought. Our ongoing goal is to make visits quicker, easier, and less stressful while managing the sites safely and fairly. We will continue to listen to residents and adjust the system accordingly to serve the community better.”
These measures represent North Somerset Council’s comprehensive approach to enhancing recycling rates and waste management efficiency across the region.