Permit scheme introduced for van drivers at Wirral recycling centres

Sep 30 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

VAN drivers will need a special permit to use Wirral’s recycling centres from tomorrow (Thursday).

The permit system for vans and large trailers has been introduced at West Kirby, Bidston and Clatterbridge Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) as part of a crackdown on the illegal disposal of trade waste.

Pick-up trucks will be classed as vans and will also need permits.

Councillor John Salter, deputy chairman of Merseyside Waste Disposal Authority (MWDA), which runs the recycling centres, said: “It’s not a perfect solution, but applying for a permit will be a quick and painless process and it will help end a situation which means council tax payers have to pick up the bill for the illegal behaviour of commercial operators.”

The MWDA says it hopes the scheme will also reduce congestion at the three centres.

To apply for a permit call 236 0305 or visit www.merseysidewda.gov.uk.

Ordinary cars/people carriers will not need permits unless they have blanked out windows or permanently removed rear seats.