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This rollout follows a month-long monitored period at Weston-super-Mare, where the new approach has already delivered smoother, safer and more efficient visits for residents.
Successful Weston-super-Mare trial
Weston‑super‑Mare was the first site to trial the system, and feedback from residents and staff has been very positive. Users have praised the new process for being easy and quick, with no queues, which has made visits more manageable and stress‑free.
Staff at the site have said the system has also made the centre safer, giving them more time and space to assist residents on site.
Monitoring shows no increase in fly-tipping
North Somerset Council has assessed fly‑tipping reports throughout the first month of the Weston‑super‑Mare trial and has seen no rise in fly‑tipping since the booking system was introduced. This will continue to be monitored with the booking system now extended to Portishead and Backwell sites.
Cllr Annemieke Waite, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment at North Somerset Council, said: "I’d like to thank everyone who has used the booking system at Weston‑super‑Mare over the past month. The trial has been very successful, and we’ve received encouraging feedback from both residents and staff about how much smoother and safer visits have become.
As we now extend the system to Portishead and Backwell, we want residents to know that we will continue listening and adapting based on their experiences. Your feedback has been invaluable so far, and it will remain an important part of ensuring our recycling centres work as efficiently and safely as possible for everyone.”
Summer hours mean more booking slots at WSM
From Sunday 1 March 2026, Weston-super-Mare will move to summer opening hours, increasing the number of booking slots available. Available slots can be viewed and booked via the booking link here: North Somerset Council | HWRC Booking Service
How can residents book?
Residents can book a slot online at: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/recyclingcentres
The link is also available via the North Somerset Council app.
Bookings can be made up to two weeks in advance, or as late as 10 minutes before a slot - if space is available. Residents will receive a confirmation email and reminder notifications ahead of their visit.
Bookings can also be made on behalf of someone else - for example, a friend, neighbour or family member who doesn’t have internet access. Telephone bookings will also be available via an automated service.
A reminder to residents: please use or cancel your booking
Residents are encouraged to use their booked slots. If plans change and a visit is no longer needed, please cancel your booking so that the slot can be offered to someone else.
Full details on the system and frequently asked questions and answers, can be found at: Book to visit a recycling centre | North Somerset Council