Wiltshire Council’s new pilot booking system for six Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) launched today (8 September), with residents now able to book appointments for visits from Monday 14 September.

The pilot has been introduced in response to increasing demand at Wiltshire’s HRCs, which has led to operational challenges and queues at some locations. The council will use the pilot to assess whether a booking system can help reduce waiting times, improve customer experience and minimise disruption for nearby communities and businesses.

The appointment-only system is now in place at:

• Devizes
• Lower Compton (near Calne)
• Melksham
• Purton
• Salisbury
• Stanton St Quintin (Chippenham)

Residents can book a 30-minute slot up to one week in advance, with some same-day appointments also available. Slot lengths and site capacity will be regularly reviewed throughout the pilot to ensure the service continues to meet demand while supporting efficient site operations.

The booking system has been designed to make visits more convenient by helping to manage demand and reduce queues, particularly during busier periods. It will also allow site staff more time to assist residents during their visit.

The introduction of the pilot does not affect opening hours, vehicle permit requirements or the types of waste accepted at the six sites.

Residents are encouraged to use the online booking system wherever possible. Anyone who is unable to access or use the online service can contact Wiltshire Council’s Customer Services team for assistance in making a booking.

Cllr Paul Sample JP, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate and Waste, said:

“Today marks the start of this important pilot, which will help us understand how a booking system can support residents and improve operations at our recycling centres. We know many people value the service provided by our HRCs, and this trial gives us the opportunity to test a different way of managing demand while maintaining a positive experience for residents.

“I’d like to thank residents for their patience and cooperation as the pilot gets underway. We’ll be monitoring the data closely, listening to feedback and using what we learn to inform any future decisions about the service.”

Residents will be asked for feedback about their booking experience following their visit and operational data will be closely monitored throughout the pilot. This data will be presented to Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet to inform a decision on whether to expand, amend or discontinue the system.

To make a booking and to find out further information, go to www.wiltshire.gov.uk/bookhrc.