Parking improvements coming to Household Waste Recycling Centres across North Northamptonshire

19 September 2025

North Northamptonshire Council will be introducing new parking layouts at Kettering, Rushden and Wellingborough Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) from October 2025, as part of a wider programme of improvements to make sites safer, more efficient, and easier to use.

The Council had initially planned to introduce the changes at Kettering HWRC in August, with Rushden and Wellingborough to follow. However, to ensure a consistent experience across the area and to avoid confusion, while also delivering operational and safety benefits, the decision was made to implement the changes at all three sites at the same time.

The layout has been successfully used at Corby HWRC for some time. It provides two rows of parallel parking with a one-way access lane between them. The design enhances safety and traffic flow by allowing more vehicles to park and unload simultaneously, while minimising the need for reversing – a frequent cause of delays and safety concerns at similar sites.

The layout reflects best practice from across the waste and recycling sector and has been informed by the experience of operators managing similar sites nationally.

The improvements also include enhancing pedestrian safety through clearly marked walkways and crossing points, relocating containers for heavier materials such as plasterboard and hardcore to make them easier to access, and regularly sweeping the site using magnetic rollers to remove metal debris and help protect vehicles.

To support residents during the transition, additional staff will be on hand to direct vehicles, guide users to the correct disposal bays, and help where needed.

We’ve taken great care to ensure these changes are both practical and beneficial. Safety has been a key driver behind the decision to update the parking layouts. At several sites, the current arrangements require frequent reversing, often with limited visibility and minimal physical barriers, which can pose risks to both drivers and pedestrians.

By introducing a layout that’s already working well at Corby and reflects best practice nationally, we’re reducing those risks and making it easier for people to use the sites confidently and efficiently.

Implementing the changes at all three locations at the same time also helps avoid confusion and ensures a consistent experience for everyone. We’re committed to making improvements that genuinely benefit our communities, and we’ll continue to support residents throughout the transition.George Candler, Executive Director of Place and Economy at North Northamptonshire Council.

These changes follow the Council’s new contract with HW Martin Waste Ltd which began in April and covers the operation of all four HWRCs in the area. All improvements are included as part of the operator's costs and were included in their proposal.

Further information can be found on the HWRC parking changes webpage.