Access to recycling centres to be monitored after trailer ban lifted

Fife Council has decided to soften its policy on doubleaxle trailers after receiving a small number of complaints in relation to a ban introduced last year.

The authority’s access policy for household recycling sites was discussed by councillors.

They decided people should be allowed into recycling sites with double-axle trailers provided they fill out a declaration form assuring the council they are disposing of household waste.

It brings the rules for householders with double-axle trailers in line with those for single-axle trailers.

Ross Vettraino, convener of Fife Council’s environment and protective services committee, said access at the sites would be monitored, with number plate recognition technology allowing the council to identify commercial sites disposing of waste without having to pay.

“That situation could be managed given the small numbers provided,” he said.

“We agreed to allow access by double-axle trailers in the absence of payment subject to a written declaration that the waste is not for commercial use.

“It’s under review. If we catch people deliberately trying to get round this, the committee will review its position.”

For every tonne of commercial waste deposited at recycling sites without a payment to the council, the authority is left £120 out of pocket, taking into account haulage costs, disposal costs and landfill tax.

A double-axle trailer ban was among a raft of measures approved by the council last year aimed at targeting traders who were using the sites to get rid of commercial waste without paying.