However, there will be different measures in place which will involve being redirected to another location first.

Sherborne HRC shares an access road with a Waste Transfer Station, which is where the waste at the kerbside goes after collection. More planning was required to prevent queuing traffic – seen at all other HRCs across Dorset – disrupting bin collections by obstructing waste collection vehicles.

Dorset Council’s Waste Service officers have been working closely with Sherborne Town Council for the last few weeks and have found a solution that prevents excessive traffic queues, but also allows residents to drop off waste that cannot be safely stored at home.

All visitors should proceed to the Terrace Playing Fields car-park (situated on the southern edge of Sherborne at Dancing Hill).  At this point you will take a paper ticket – like a supermarket deli counter. When the queue at the HRC becomes short enough your number will be called by on-site staff, at which point you can visit the HRC to drop off your waste. Visitors without a ticket will not be able to enter the recycling centre.

Visitors are reminded that social distancing measures are in place at all HRCs. Please note:

• Do not arrive at the Terrace Playing Fields car park early – operating hours are 9am to 6pm daily
• Do not visit the HRC directly or if you are unwell
• Stay 2m away from all people on site outside of your household
• HRC staff will not be able to assist with carrying items
• Only one person should leave the vehicle to unload waste, two if unloading heavy items
• Please bring a maximum of two waste types per visit
• Reuse areas will remain closed
• Charges still apply for some waste types, but contactless payments only – no cash.
• On your return from the HRC, please remember not to touch your face and to wash your hands for 20 seconds on arrival at your destination.

Cllr Tony Alford, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Customer, Community and Regulatory Services, said, “We’ve been working hard planning how we can re-open Sherborne HRC without disrupting kerbside collections and I’d like to extend my gratitude to Sherborne Town Council for their help in finding a solution that works for everyone.

“If you do need to visit Sherborne HRC, be prepared for delays. We’ll have friendly employees and volunteers at both sites to let you know what you must do.

“We will get things back to normal when visitor numbers drop to manageable levels and/or social distancing restrictions are relaxed. In the meantime, we kindly ask everyone to have patience and understanding while these temporary arrangements are in place.”