Lib Dems Submit Petition Against Booking System for East Sussex Tips

A petition opposing East Sussex County Council’s proposed booking system for household waste recycling sites has been formally submitted by the Liberal Democrats, with 3,466 residents signing in protest.

The petition, which has gained rapid support since its launch, highlights widespread public concern that a booking system would create unnecessary obstacles to waste disposal. Residents have voiced fears that the move will disproportionately impact those without internet access, increase fly-tipping, and disrupt the current, efficient walk-in system.

The submission follows weeks of growing opposition, with local people expressing frustration at what they see as an unnecessary and restrictive change. The Liberal Democrats argue that similar systems introduced elsewhere have proven unpopular and risk reducing responsible waste disposal.

Lewes Liberal Democrats are urging East Sussex County Council to abandon the proposal and retain the current walk-in system, ensuring waste disposal remains accessible to all.

Cllr Kevin West,  Liberal Democrat Lewes Town Councillor, said: “The overwhelming response to our petition makes it clear: people in East Sussex do not want a booking system for their local tips. More than 3,400 residents have spoken up against this plan, and it’s time for the County Council to listen. This scheme is unnecessary. So many residents have contacted us to say they don’t encounter issues at the tip and a change is fixing a problem that doesn’t exist. Additionally they are concerned that it may be inconvenient, and risks increasing fly-tipping across our communities.”