Call to end controversial East Sussex tip booking system

East Sussex County Council is set to debate a motion to discontinue its controversial household waste recycling site (HWRS) booking system.

The motion, put forward by Liberal Democrat councillors Kathryn Field and Stephen Holt, responds to widespread public dissatisfaction. 

The Context of the Debate

• Widespread Opposition: A public consultation generated nearly 6,000 comments, with 91% of respondents voting against the booking system. 
• The Motion: Opponents argue the system makes waste disposal complex and leaves residents feeling "dissatisfied and excluded," particularly those without internet access. 
• Charity Impact: Local charities report that people are hiding non-recyclable waste underneath legitimate donations, forcing charities to pay for tip disposal. 

Council Justification & Financial Data

• The Objectives: Council officers introduced the system in November 2025 to stop commercial trade waste fraud and restrict tip use to local residents. 
• Higher-Than-Expected Savings: While initial projections estimated standard taxpayer savings of £50,000 per year, council officers reported in July 2026 that actual savings could reach £579,683 if waste reductions continue. 
• Fly-Tipping Claims: Council reports show that overall fly-tipping has decreased over the last three years, despite a minor 20-tonne increase recorded in the six months immediately following the rollout.