Hunstanton Town Council shows support for petition against recycling centre booking system

A parish councillor who wishes to scrap appointment times at recycling centres has been backed by town councillors.

Heacham parish councillor Dean Rawnsley attended Hunstanton Town Council’s full meeting last Wednesday where he asked for its support in creating a petition to axe the new booking system.

Cllr Rawnsley discussed with the town council how he believes the new system introduced in November is hard to use for “older people who aren’t tech-savvy”.

He added that he thinks the booking system will discourage residents from taking their rubbish to the tip and will cause more fly-tipping.

“The booking system is hard for older people. If you are not tech savvy, it’s hard to book,” said Cllr Rawnsley.

“I am concerned that people won’t use recycling centres properly. We are concerned people will start fly-tipping because they can’t book an appointment.”

The parish councillor also pointed out that he has never had to queue to get rid of rubbish at the Heacham tip before, but that queues are now likely because of the booking system.

He said the parish council is considering starting an online petition to scrap the new booking system, which has already been backed by both Dersingham and Snettisham Parish Councils.

There were mixed views expressed by town councillors, but they overall decided to support Cllr Rawnsley.

Cllr Tony Bishopp said: “I understand what you’re saying, but on the website, there are nearly 200 appointments available. I only have to go to the tip three to four times a year. 200 appointments a day should be okay.”

Cllr Rawnsley replied: “If you are an elderly resident without any internet, it is not as easy for them to book an appointment.”

Cllr Robert Corby added: “I am in full agreement with what you are saying. There will be a lot more fly-tipping. It is human nature for that sort of thing to happen.

“I can’t see the reason behind this new system other than to reduce workers’ hours.”

Cllr Geoffrey Smith agreed and said: “I thought it was a ludicrous decision. There will be fly-tipping. If it ain’t broke, why fix it?”

Meanwhile, Cllr Wendy Croucher raised concerns that the new booking system will make it harder for working people who can only visit the recycling centre on weekends.

Mayor Michael Ruston added: “I think the mood of the meeting is that we support your endeavours at Heacham.

“It might be worth checking with Norfolk County Council, write to them asking for an update on how the scheme is working.”