Residents of Milborne Port are facing significantly increased travel distances to dispose of household recycling following a decision by Dorset Council to no longer permit Somerset residents to use the Sherborne recycling centre. The change means that many residents who previously relied on the nearby Sherborne facility must now travel considerably further afield if they are to avoid being charged. The nearest alternatives are Yeovil Recycling Centre, requiring a 26-mile round trip, or Castle Cary Recycling Centre, a 28-mile journey.
It is understood that Somerset residents may still be able to use the Sherborne site, but at a cost of £8.50 per visit. This raises serious concerns about practicality and fairness. Residents question who is likely to pay £8.50 to dispose of small or low-value items such as an almost empty rusty tin of paint, electrical appliances larger than those that fit in a plastic bag, or small amounts of unwanted wood, stone or similar materials.
This development has raised numerous concerns about environmental impact, accessibility and fairness – particularly for rural residents who already face limited local services. Increased travel distances are likely to result in higher carbon emissions, additional fuel costs and inconvenience for households attempting to responsibly dispose of waste.
Efforts to raise these concerns at a parliamentary level have so far gone unanswered. Since August, repeated correspondence has been sent to local MP Sarah Dyke, highlighting the issue and its environmental implications. Despite public statements identifying environmental protection as a priority, no response has been received.
Residents argue that the policy contradicts broader sustainability goals by effectively discouraging recycling through reduced accessibility and the introduction of additional costs. There are also concerns that longer travel requirements or usage fees may lead to an increase in fly-tipping or improper waste disposal.
A geographical solution
A simple and practical solution has been proposed: adopting a geographic approach whereby households within a defined radius – such as postcodes located within six miles of Sherborne – would be granted free access to the recycling centre, regardless of council boundaries. Such an approach would reflect the realities of local geography, reduce unnecessary travel and support environmental objectives.
Local voices are calling for urgent dialogue between Dorset Council, Somerset Council and parliamentary representatives to find a fair and environmentally responsible resolution. Suggestions include reinstating cross-border access agreements, reviewing the proposed charges or implementing a proximity-based access system.
Without intervention, the burden will remain on residents who are being asked to travel further, pay more and emit more – simply to recycle their waste responsibly.
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