Residents will need to register their vehicles before using household waste recycling centres under new rules introduced by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The council has said the new system is designed to reduce unauthorised use and make sure centres remain available for residents who need them.

Vehicles will now need to be registered in advance, with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras used to identify vehicles when residents arrive at a recycling centre.

The council says residents will no longer need to provide ID or proof of address, and paper permits will no longer be required.

Each household will be entitled to 30 visits to household waste recycling centres within any 12-month period, with residents able to monitor how many visits they have remaining.

Additional visits can be requested if the allowance is used, subject to conditions.

Registration will be a one-off process for each household, with details only needing to be updated if residents move home or change vehicles. Households can register up to three vehicles, including one commercial-type vehicle.

The council says the new system is being introduced following concerns over frequent visits and suspected non-household waste being brought to recycling centres, particularly by people using commercial-type vehicles.

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A ten-year waste management strategy was adopted by the council in 2021, with a review of household waste recycling centres forming part of plans to reduce waste, increase recycling and provide a cost-effective service.

The changes follow cabinet approval in June 2025 after a public consultation in 2024 on proposals to improve the future of HWRCs.

Cllr Karen Shore, deputy leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said household waste recycling centres were "a crucial part of managing waste and recycling" in the borough.

She added: "Dealing with unauthorised waste costs the Council money and reduces capacity for residents to use the sites. The new registration system will make things fairer and more efficient for everyone."

Residents without access to a smartphone or computer can call 0300 123 7026 for help completing their registration. Support will also be available at local libraries, where staff can assist with accessing the website or completing the form.

Sign-up sessions will also be held at recycling centres throughout August on the following dates:

• Tuesday 11 August, 12-2pm - Northwich
• Wednesday 12 August, 5-7pm - Ellesmere Port
• Thursday 13 August, 12-2pm - Tattenhall
• Tuesday 25 August, 12-2pm - Frodsham
• Tuesday 25 August, 5-7pm - Chester, Bumpers Lane
• Wednesday 26 August, 5-7pm - Winsford
• Thursday 27 August, 12-2pm - Neston