MORE than 5,000 people have applied for permits to use recycling sites in Somerset under a scheme coming in next month.

Vans up to 3.5 tonnes, pick-ups and trailers up to three metres floor length towed by cars can use Priorswood and other sites from Monday, October 3, so long as they have a permit.

The new measures will exclude large vans, box/Luton vans, large trailers, box trailers, horse boxes, tractors, and trailers towed by vans or pick-ups.

The move is aimed at cutting congestion at sites and includes a total ban on out-of-county users who pay nothing towards waste services.

Applications for permits should be made at www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/permit or via libraries for people without internet access.

Drivers of cars, including saloons, estates, 4x4s, people carriers and campervans, will not need a permit and will see no change except less congestion.

An SWP spokesman said: “Application numbers are now climbing past 5,000, so anyone else needing a permit should go online soon to be sure they have their permit in good time.

“Our aim is a swift, smooth and safe recycling site visit every time for all Somerset residents. Getting many more vehicles out of their way will be a great help.”