A booking process trialled across recycling centres managed by Essex County Council has been made permanent following positive feedback from residents.

The decision by the council, which is subject to a three-day call-in period, follows a six-week public consultation that saw over 18,000 responses.

An independent analysis showed 58% of respondents were in favour of keeping the booking process for cars, while 72% were in favour of keeping it for vans and large vehicles.

The booking process was trialled at nine van-friendly sites in February 2022 before being extended to all recycling centres managed by the council in March 2023. The nearest to Brightlingsea is at Rush Green Road in Clacton.

A full evaluation of the booking trial can be seen here and to find out more information or to book a slot, visit www.loveessex.org/bookings