GETTING rid of rubbish using a van or trailer at recycling centres is set to become easier following changes to the permit system.

Somerset Waste Partnership introduced permits for van and trailer users in 2016 in a bid to cut congestion at its recycling centres, caused in part by visitors from outside of the county.

The original permits were valid for three years and could be applied for by any van or trailer owner free of charge.

The partnership has now announced that the permits system is changing – with no expiry date on any new permits being issued, and existing permits remaining valid even after they expire.

If a resident wants to dispose of waste in a van or using a trailer – rather than a car – they need a special access permit, for which they can apply online.

David Oaten, the partnership’s contracts manager for treatment and infrastructure, told the Somerset Waste Board’s recent meeting: “Rather than issuing the new tranche of permits that are due from October 2019, the life of the existing permits will be extended.”

The partnership believes this will save at least £26,000 which it would have incurred by asking everyone with existing permits to renew from October.

Existing permit holders will be told they can continue to use their permit after the expiry date, and any new permits issued will not have an expiry date.

A spokesman said: “If you have an existing permit or are applying for a permit before the end of September 2019, no need to worry – the scheme is being rolled on with no changes.

“All existing and new cards will remain valid unless any key details – such as your address or vehicle – change. Only then do you need to apply for a new free permit and destroy the old card.

“The only thing changing is that those applying from September 30 will get a different coloured card with no expiry date.”

More than 44,000 permits have been issued since the scheme was introduced.