MIDDLEWICH tip has re-opened and drivers have appreciated the new coronavirus restrictions and traffic management.

Residents have been praised for their patience and understanding as a car number plate system was introduced when the site welcomed the first cars on Monday.

Cheshire East Council says all their household waste recycling centres will now open seven days a week, from 8.30am to 5pm.

Angela Allen, from Middlewich, said: "I went this morning. It was very well organised, thank you to all the staff."

All users of the sites must observe social distancing measures, meaning that site staff will not be able to assist anyone.

The council is aiming to keep on top of the numbers using the tip by allowing only visitors with an odd or even car registration plate number on alternate days.

Drivers' access to the Croxton Lane site will be based on the last number on their vehicle registration plate.

This means drivers with an odd plate – such as 67 or 19 – can access the site today, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday this week.

Drivers with even plates – such as 14 or 68 – will be given access on Thursday and Saturday.

The weeks will alternate from the second week of opening onwards and residents can check if it is their turn by visiting the council website.

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The site is operating on a ‘one out, one in’ basis for cars, so waiting times may be significantly longer than usual.

Once on site, all cars must be parked at least two metres away from the next one.

Residents are urged to only travel to the household waste and recycling site where the journey is essential and where the waste or recycling cannot be safely stored at home until a later date.

Access will be permitted for cars only, with no more than two people in the car and children only allowed if they cannot stay at home, but they must remain in the car.

No vans, vehicle trailers or commercial vehicles will be allowed.

Waste from households containing people who have Covid-19 symptoms should be double bagged and left for 72 hours before being brought to site.

For further details visit https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/waste_and_recycling/using-household-waste-recycling-centres/using-household-waste-recycling-centres.aspx