Dorset Council’s new booking system for Household Recycling Centres (HRCs, or “the tip”) will now launch in early 2026, rather than this year as previously announced.
The system – set to be introduced at Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury, and Sherborne HRCs – is designed to make recycling centres fairer, greener and better value for Dorset residents. By managing demand more effectively, Dorset Council maintains it will also help staff support residents in separating waste, leading to higher reuse and recycling rates.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said: “We’re taking a little extra time to make sure the system works smoothly for everyone. This is about delivering a better experience for residents and ensuring the service remains fair, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible.”
Dorset Council says the booking system will help protect services for the long term and ensure access remains free and straightforward for all Dorset residents. Also it helps prevent misuse of local sites by visitors from outside the county or businesses avoiding commercial charges – making sure Dorset taxpayers aren’t footing the bill for waste that isn’t theirs to manage.
Residents should be able to book online or by phone, with same-day booking and multiple visits allowed. Non-Dorset visitors will pay a small fee per visit. All other Dorset Council recycling centres remain open without booking for residents, except when disposing of DIY waste.
Further updates, including the revised launch date and how to book, will be shared in due course.
