Retford residents planning a trip to local recycling centres over the May Bank Holiday weekends are being urged to prepare ahead or risk delays, as sites across Nottinghamshire brace for a surge in visitors.

Nottinghamshire County Council has issued advice ahead of the busy period, warning that recycling centres are expected to see high demand due to warmer weather and the usual spike in spring cleaning and garden clear-outs.

All 12 recycling centres in the county, including those used by residents in Retford and Bassetlaw, are now operating extended summer hours, opening daily from 8am until 8pm. However, visitors are being encouraged to plan carefully, with quieter time slots typically between 8am and 10am, and again from 6pm to 8pm.

One key step that could save time is ensuring vehicles are registered before arriving. Residents must sign up via the council’s website in advance, as failing to do so could result in being turned away.

The council is also reminding visitors to check online which items are accepted at recycling centres, as well as any limits on waste types. Trade waste is strictly prohibited at all sites.

In addition, a renewed safety push is highlighting the importance of correctly disposing of batteries, electricals and vapes. These items can pose a serious fire risk if placed in household bins. Visitors are encouraged to bring them along to recycling centres, where dedicated drop-off points – marked by pink signage – are available.

Councillor Bert Bingham, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, said the Bank Holiday weekends are traditionally one of the busiest times of year.

“As we look ahead to the upcoming Bank Holiday weekends, we’re expecting that many residents across Nottinghamshire may be spring cleaning or gardening and may wish to use our network of recycling centres,” he said.

“In previous years, we’ve seen an increase in visitors to our sites at times like this and there’s a few things that residents can do to help ease delays and keep things moving.

“All sites are now open for 12 hours a day until September and so we advise timing your visit for earlier in the morning or later in the evening to avoid busy periods.”

He added that while it is encouraging to see more people recycling, checking what can be accepted before setting off is essential to avoid wasted journeys.

With thousands expected to visit sites over the long weekends, council officials say a little preparation could make all the difference between a quick trip and a lengthy queue.