RESIDENTS can now book a visit to the Forest Household Recycling Centre at shorter notice following the launch of a new system.

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, people wishing to take their household waste to a Gloucestershire County Council-run centre has had to book a slot at least a day in advance.

The new system allows people to book on the same day as their visit, making it easier to visit one of county’s five sites, including Oak Quarry at Broadwell.

The council says the booking system has been retained following the pandemic as it has reduced queueing and congestion, with customers making fewer trips - some 250,000 less journeys per year - but with larger volumes of waste helping to reduce emissions.

Cllr David Gray, cabinet member responsible for waste and recycling, said: “The booking system that we’ve put in place has allowed our recycling centres to operate even more efficiently and environmentally.

“It has also made life easier for residents and helped to cut down on unnecessary journeys.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to upgrade this system to allow residents to book on the day of their visit.”