A permit is to be introduced to stop anyone from outside of Peterborough using the city’s household recycling centre at Fengate. From February 24 anyone hoping to use the centre will need an e-permit before being allowed access.
The city council has previously operated a van/trailer e-permit scheme, but this will now be extended to all those visiting the centre, apart from the small number that visit on a push bike and on foot.
The city council says residents can now apply for an e-permit and it is “free and only takes a few minutes to apply”.
A city council spokesperson said: “The scheme is being introduced to reduce usage of the facility by residents from outside of Peterborough, helping to lower waste tonnage and reduce the cost to Peterborough tax payers.
“It’s also hoped that the initiative will reduce congestion at the household recycling centre (HRC) during peak times.”
As the e-permit system is all electronic, residents need to apply for a permit online.
Once an application has been made, residents can visit the centre where staff will note vehicle registrations using hand-held devices.
Visitors are asked to bring proof of address on their first visit after their e-permit application.
Councillor Angus Ellis, Peterborough City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: “The HRC is a real asset for the council and Peterborough residents, providing a modern one-stop-shop facility which continues to receive positive feedback from users.
“However, this has meant that it often attracts visitors from outside of the city, which can result in it becoming very busy at peak times.
“It’s also unfair for local taxpayers to fund usage of the HRC by non-Peterborough residents. We are fully committed to ensuring that the HRC runs effectively, and the new e-permits will help us achieve this.
“I would urge everyone who uses the HRC in a motor vehicle to apply for an e-permit as soon as possible, you can do this online in just a few minutes.
“If you have any questions please contact our waste team or speak to staff at the HRC who will be happy to help.”
Residents who have a valid van/trailer e-permit already can continue with this e-permit if they intend to use the van or trailer, but if they decide to visit by car, they will need to apply for a separate e-permit.
Anyone who visits the HRC without an e-permit will be encouraged to apply for one on-site. The e-permits are valid for three years and there is no limit to HRC visits that can be made. Amendments to e-permits, such as changing a car registration number, can be made online.
For more information about the scheme, including FAQs and details on how to apply for a permit visit here.
Residents without internet access can contact 01733 747474 and the Call Centre will apply on their behalf
