While the council declined to say which specific elements of government guidance had changed, two people are now able to get out of their car to unload waste and recycling, and containers for recycling including hard plastics have been re-introduced.
An increased number of vehicles are now allowed on site at any one time and barriers defining socially distanced tipping areas and walkways have been removed.
The council says the lifting of the restrictions will reduce wait times, congestion on site and traffic queuing on the surrounding roads.
“We are pleased to be able to lift some of the measures in place in order to create a more efficient service on site”
Ian Poultney, head of sustainability and strategic development at BCP council, said: “We are pleased to be able to lift some of the measures in place in order to create a more efficient service on site, especially before the bank holiday weekend where we anticipate an increase in visitors.
“Additional resources were put in place to manage the exceptionally high numbers of visitors we were receiving, particularly with traffic management in the local areas of the sites.
“However, we will now be able to allow an increased number of vehicles which will reduce the traffic congestion in the surrounding areas, benefitting both residents and local businesses.”
Representing an estimated population of just under 400,000, BCP council had a household waste recycling rate of 53.9% in the 2019/20 financial year.
Covid-19 measures
Several measures will remain in place at the HWRCs. Face coverings and social distancing guidance still needs to be followed in line with national guidance.
Staff on site will remain unable to help residents unload their vehicles or dispose of their waste.
Traffic levels surrounding the HWRCs will continue to be monitored and the council says additional measures will be considered “if needed”.
Mr Poultney told letsrecycle.com: “BCP council has utilised a number of Covid-19 control measures to safely operate our recycling centres and protect residents and front-line staff.
“Measures are in place to control social distancing and limit social contact between residents, other residents and staff, in line with government advice and industry guidance.”
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