'SHOP-STYLE' social distancing will soon be in place at recycling centres in Somerset.

As restrictions begin to ease during the coronavirus pandemic, rules at the county's waste centres will change again.

From next week, floor markings and other signs will be in place at all 16 sites, similar to those seen at supermarkets and shops.

Visitors will be expected to 'take responsibility' for keeping themselves and others safe.

All sites were closed in March when the crisis hit the UK, but then reopened in May with strict guidance in place.

Measures that remain in place include:

  • Gloves to be worn when outside the vehicle
  • Maximum of two people per household
  • Trailers and 3.5 tonne vans only allowed between 4pm and 6pm on weekdays
  • Lifting assistance not available.

Sites have experienced long queues at times, especially in the morning, and the public is still advised to only make trips to the tip if really necessary.

Mickey Green, Managing director of SWP, said: “These arrangements will be familiar to everyone from their trips to the supermarket, with the responsibility very much on the public to do the right thing and maintain social distance.

“The way that visitors have accepted the restrictions and followed the guidance so far has been great and I’m sure this will be no different.”

All sites are now open for their usual summer hours. Queue cams are operating for Bridgwater, Chard, Highbridge, Minehead, Street, Taunton, Wells and Yeovil.

For more information visit somersetwaste.gov.uk/recycling-centre-queue-cams