If you live in Preston and are planning a clear-out, you’ll likely find yourself heading to the local recycling centre. Whether it’s household clutter, garden trimmings, or an old appliance, knowing the Preston tip opening times, what the site accepts, and any booking or permit requirements is essential.
Preston’s main Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), located on Tom Benson Way, is run by Lancashire County Council and serves local residents looking to dispose of waste safely and responsibly.
It’s not just a place to throw things away, it also includes a reuse shop, accepts some hazardous materials like asbestos, and has specific rules depending on the type of vehicle you use.
This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting the Preston tip.
Where Is the Preston Recycling Centre and Who Manages It?
The primary tip in Preston is the Household Waste Recycling Centre on Tom Benson Way, situated in the north-west part of the city. This facility is managed by Lancashire County Council and is dedicated to household waste disposal for Preston residents.
Here’s the key location information:
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Preston Recycling Centre |
| Address | Tom Benson Way, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 1SG |
| Managed by | Lancashire County Council |
| Type of Facility | Split-level Household Waste Recycling Centre |
This centre does not accept trade or commercial waste, focusing solely on household waste from residents. It offers step-free access for cars, and the split-level design allows for easier unloading.
What Are the Current Preston Tip Opening Times?
The Preston tip is open seven days a week, offering convenient access for residents throughout the year. Unlike some other sites, it remains open over weekends and only closes on major holidays.
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time | Notes |
| Monday – Sunday | 9:00 AM | 5:00 PM | Open all week |
| Bank Holidays | 9:00 AM | 5:00 PM | Open unless it falls on a closed holiday |
| Closed On | — | — | Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day |
It’s recommended to check the council’s website for any unexpected closures due to weather conditions, maintenance, or policy changes.
Do You Need to Book or Have a Permit to Use the Preston Tip?
For most car users, visiting the Preston tip is simple, no booking or permit is required. However, if you’re using a van, trailer, or large vehicle, there are some additional requirements to be aware of.
Lancashire County Council enforces permit schemes for certain vehicle types to help manage traffic, reduce misuse, and ensure only household waste is being brought to the site.
If you’re using a vehicle such as a van or a car with a trailer, you will need to apply for a household waste permit. This can be done online through the council’s website. For these vehicles, it’s also important to book your visit in advance, as the tip operates a system to control access for larger loads.
Proof of residency, such as a driving licence or recent utility bill, may also be requested at the gate, especially if your vehicle is not clearly registered in the local area.
What Waste Is Accepted at the Preston Recycling Centre?
The Preston tip is equipped to handle a wide range of materials. This includes everything from general household rubbish to recyclable goods, electrical items, and even certain hazardous waste, such as asbestos, provided it is packaged and declared properly in advance.
Generally accepted items include:
- General household rubbish
- Garden and green waste
- Paper, cardboard, and plastics
- Glass bottles and jars
- Electrical appliances, such as TVs and fridges
- Furniture and soft furnishings
- Batteries, lightbulbs, and scrap metal
The site also has the facilities to receive asbestos, which is not common at all local tips. This service is strictly regulated. Asbestos must be double-bagged, securely sealed, and labelled, and visitors must inform the council prior to arrival so that safety precautions can be put in place.
Notably, trade or commercial waste is not accepted at this location. Businesses are required to use licensed commercial disposal services and cannot access the Preston tip under any circumstances.
What Is the Reuse Shop at the Preston Recycling Centre?
One of the most unique and environmentally conscious features of the Tom Benson Way site is its Reuse Shop, which is operated alongside the tip but has its own opening times and function.
The shop is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and offers good-quality second-hand items that have been dropped off at the recycling centre but are still suitable for use. Items on sale include:
- Small items of furniture
- Kitchenware
- Books
- Toys
- Electrical goods (PAT tested before sale)
This initiative not only helps reduce waste but also supports local community organisations and charities. Instead of going to landfill, these items get a second life in someone else’s home.
How Should You Prepare for a Visit to the Preston Tip?
A bit of preparation can make your visit much smoother and quicker. First, make sure you check whether your vehicle requires a booking or permit. If you’re using a car, you can typically just turn up during opening hours.
Next, sort your waste at home before you pack your vehicle. Separate recyclables like paper, plastics, and glass from general waste. If you’re bringing any hazardous materials, especially asbestos, follow the strict packaging and notification guidelines.
Avoid peak times if possible. Weekends and mid-mornings tend to be the busiest. For the most efficient visit, aim to go midweek or early in the morning.
Finally, be sure to bring any necessary documentation, such as a permit, proof of address, or your booking confirmation if applicable.
What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using the Preston Recycling Centre?
Using the Preston HWRC responsibly has several environmental and community benefits. Recycling materials like plastics, metals, and glass reduces the demand for new raw materials, helping to conserve energy and natural resources.
It also diverts waste from landfills, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports the UK’s waste management and sustainability targets.
The presence of the reuse shop adds an additional environmental advantage by extending the life cycle of items that might otherwise be discarded unnecessarily. This approach supports the circular economy, encouraging people to rethink waste and reuse items wherever possible.
How Does the Preston Tip Compare at a Glance?
Here’s a quick-reference table with everything you need to know about the Preston tip:
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Tom Benson Way, Preston, PR2 1SG |
| Opening Times | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 7 days a week |
| Closed On | Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day |
| Reuse Shop | Open Wed–Sun, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Vehicle Access | Cars: No booking; Vans/trailers: Permit required |
| Booking Required | For vans/trailers only |
| Trade Waste Accepted | No |
| Asbestos Disposal Available | Yes – with prior arrangement and correct packaging |
| Managed By | Lancashire County Council |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Preston Tip
Can I use the Preston tip with a hire van?
Yes, but you must book your visit and apply for a permit in advance. Hire vans are treated the same as privately owned vans under council policy.
Is the reuse shop open every day?
No, the reuse shop is only open from Wednesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Can I bring asbestos to the tip?
Yes, the Preston tip accepts asbestos, but it must be securely double-bagged, labelled, and declared in advance. The council should be notified before your visit.
Are there any charges for dropping off waste?
Most household waste is free to drop off, but some materials, such as tyres or DIY waste, may incur a charge. Check the council website for details.
Do I need to show ID when visiting?
ID is not always required, but it is recommended, especially when using a van or trailer. Proof of address may be requested.
Is there help available on-site to unload?
Staff are present to provide guidance but may not be able to assist with heavy lifting. It’s best to bring someone with you if you have large items.
Can I visit the Preston tip on a bank holiday?
Yes, the site is generally open on bank holidays unless it falls on one of the official closed dates.
