As the Wiltshire Councillors representing residents who rely on the Shaftesbury Household Recycling Centre, we understand firsthand how important this facility is for our community's waste management needs. Many of our residents regularly visit this recycling centre due to its convenience and accessibility. However, recently, Dorset Council has proposed an £8 charge per visit for non-residents, adversely affecting our Wiltshire community.

The imposition of this charge will place an undue financial burden on the residents of Wiltshire who have been long-term users of the Shaftesbury recycling facility. This additional cost is not just a matter of inconvenience; it disrupts our efforts to maintain environmentally friendly waste disposal practices by potentially discouraging frequent recycling trips. The fee not only impacts individual families but also contradicts collaborative environmental goals at a regional level.

For Wiltshire residents, the distances to travel to alternative Wiltshire household recycling centres will mean increased emissions, something that Wiltshire Council wishes to prevent.

Moreover, the introduction of a compulsory booking system adds further complexity and inconvenience for users of the recycling centre, including both Dorset and Wiltshire residents. A united voice can help alleviate this issue, as many Dorset residents also share the desire to maintain unfettered access to the facility without the added barriers of having to book a slot.

We urge Wiltshire Council to engage in productive negotiations with Dorset Council to eliminate the £8 charge for Wiltshire residents at the Shaftesbury Household Recycling Centre. By reaching a mutual agreement, both councils can demonstrate their commitment to cross-border cooperation, supporting the ease of access to essential recycling services and shared environmental values without implementing a booking system.

Signing this petition will help reinforce the need for dialogue between councils, ensuring fair access to recycling facilities for Wiltshire residents and reducing the environmental impact. We need your support to make this change a reality for both Wiltshire and Dorset residents alike.

Bridget Wayman, Wiltshire Councillor for Nadder Valley
Nabil Najjar, Wiltshire Councillor for Fovant and Chalke Valley
Gerry Murray, Wiltshire Councillor for Tisbury and The Donheads
George Jeans, Wiltshire Councillor for Mere