VAN drivers are being reminded that they will need a permit to dump waste at the recycling centre.

Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA) says this will also apply to anyone with a large trailer.

Introduced in October 2009 the permit scheme was put in place to prevent traders and commercial operators from using the region's recycling centres which are supposed to be used by householders only.

Since then more than 278,000 permits have been issued to householders across Merseyside.

Carl Beer chief executive of MRWA said: "Permit schemes are common around the country. We brought it in here as we had anecdotal evidence that commercial operators were using the recycling centres to illegally deposit trade waste.

"There is no perfect solution to stopping traders trying to get on to our sites but we have found that this is the best weapon against those who abuse the system."

Those applying for permits will need to supply their name, address and vehicle details. Anyone using such vehicles is asked to ring 0151 236 0305 or visit merseysidewda.gov.uk before their next visit.

Carl Beer added: "Just to be clear, householders visiting in ordinary saloon or estate cars and people carriers do not need a permit unless they have blanked out windows or permanently removed rear seat. However pick-up trucks are classed as vans and do not need permits."