HAMPSHIRE County Council says there has been a rise in the number of people booking slots at Household Waste Recycling Centres and failing to show up.

As a result, the council is urging people to book a slot to dispose of their household waste only if they intend to use it.

Councillor Rob Humby, deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and environment said: “On a typical Saturday or Sunday, we have seen up to 60 no-shows at the bigger sites which means, of course, that’s 60 people in that area who could have used that slot.

"With the August bank holiday coming up, when HWRCs are often busier, I’d ask people to make sure they only book a slot at their local HWRC if they intend to use it.

“We are still operating at reduced capacity in order to keep safe social distancing measures in place for staff and residents, so I would ask people to only book slots they need so that there are enough to go round.

"It’s easy to cancel a booking if you change your mind or can’t make a slot after all – and as long as this is done the day before, the slot can be allocated to someone else in your community who needs it. Please don’t let your waste slot go to waste.”

The council has come under fire in recent weeks, with many residents upset that they are continuously unable to find a free slot to book.

Booking slots are available seven days in advance at each of Hampshire’s 24 HWRCs.

Bookings can be made online at www.hants.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/recyclingcentres/book-appointment or, for those without internet access, by phone on 02380 179 949, between Monday and Friday 9am to 5:30pm

People wishing to cancel or amend a booking can do so via the link received on the confirmation email.

This link enables residents to either cancel a booking or reschedule it to another available date and time.