Automated barriers
From Wednesday 8 October 2025, each of our Household Waste Recycling Centres (Tidy tips) in Ampthill, Biggleswade, Leighton Buzzard and Thorn Turn (near Dunstable) will have automated barriers in operation at the entrance to each site.
These barriers work with our Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system and the online booking system.
Why do we still need barriers if there’s an online booking system?
Since the introduction of online bookings for recycling centres, site operatives have been visually checking residents’ bookings. This was always intended as a temporary step until automated barriers were introduced.
We know that even with online booking, operatives still need to check details, and during busy periods they may be diverted to other duties so checks aren’t always possible.
Data indicates that during August 2025, 93% of residents across the four recycling centre sites had valid bookings. The introduction of automated barriers will allow staff more time to assist residents and separate materials for recycling.
How do ANPR cameras and automated barriers work?
The ANPR system uses cameras to capture a vehicle’s number plate. When a match is found, the barrier lifts, allowing entry to the recycling centre. The barrier will be raised for long enough to allow one car at a time.
Has the new barrier system been tested?
Yes. The system has been extensively tested across all four recycling centres in recent weeks. We simulated a range of scenarios to confirm when the barriers should open or remain closed.
What should I do before visiting a recycling centre?
There is no change to the current booking process.
Residents must continue to make a booking to access a recycling centre, either online or by telephone if they don’t have online access. When booking, please ensure your vehicle number plate is entered correctly as this will allow the barrier to open.
On arrival, if the vehicle number plate matches a confirmed booking, the system will open the barrier and the vehicle may enter the recycling centre.
What happens if the barrier doesn’t open?
The automated barrier will remain closed for any of the following reasons:
- no valid booking
- vehicle registration does not match the valid booking
- arrival outside the chosen timeslot (there is a short tolerance for slightly early or late arrivals)
If you are at the barrier and it hasn’t opened, press the help button next to the vehicle’s nearside window to alert a site operative. If, in the operative’s judgement, a genuine mistake has been made (for example, the vehicle registration was entered incorrectly), the operative can override the system and allow the barrier to open.
If a visitor is suspected of bringing commercial waste, the barrier will remain closed. In these circumstances the visitor will be asked to perform a U-turn in the area next to the barrier where possible. If there isn’t space to turn around safely, they may be allowed through the barrier but will be told they are not permitted to deposit waste at the recycling centre. The vehicle will then be monitored on site to ensure waste is not deposited.
If there are any issues with the barrier or a system failure, the barrier can be switched off and lifted manually.
Will there be any problems with the barriers?
We do not anticipate issues. To ensure a smooth transition, staff will be at the gates initially. As when the online booking system was first introduced, we will take an awareness-raising and educational approach at first and do not expect to refuse entry to residents without a valid booking while people are getting used to the barriers.
How are residents being informed about the new barriers?
Reminders about making a booking and entering vehicle registration details correctly will be posted across our communication channels.
What are the benefits of ANPR and automated barriers?
The automated barriers will:
- enhance security by ensuring only approved vehicles can enter our recycling centres
- increase efficiency by automating entry and reducing delays and congestion at the gates
- free up site staff to help residents and attend to other duties instead of continually checking bookings
Can I still access the reuse shop at Thorn Turn?
Yes. If your sole purpose is to visit the reuse shop at Thorn Turn recycling centre, the barrier will remain down. Press the help button next to the vehicle’s nearside window to alert a site operative. Site staff will then manually override the system to allow entry.
What about residents visiting on foot?
Pedestrian access to all our recycling centres is not permitted.
If you don’t have access to a vehicle, please contact us at least two days before your intended visit. We will arrange for an operative to meet you at the gate at your allotted time and take the waste from you in person.
Does the barrier system affect trade waste users at Thorn Turn?
No. Visitors who wish to dispose of trade waste do not need to make a booking and do not pass through the automated barriers at Thorn Turn recycling centre.