The new rules you must follow at Sheffield’s recycling centres as fines start TODAY

Sheffield City Council said the new measures will “protect road users from the dangers associated with unsafe queueing traffic.”

A Council spokesperson said it is also hoped they will “protect the safety of the public and our workforce by limiting the number of people using the sites to maintain social distancing.”

They added: “The large numbers of people trying to access the sites has resulted in significant traffic queues, with drivers often refusing to move on despite being asked to do so by site staff.

“It is not acceptable for vehicles to queue outside the sites as this may cause potential danger for other road users trying to pass.”

The centres affected are Longley Avenue West, Shirecliffe; Beighton Road, Woodhouse; Blackstock Road, Gleadless; Manchester Road, Deepcar; and Greaves Lane, High Green.

Worried residents near to Blackstock Road recycling centre previously branded queues of up to 200 metres there ‘extremely dangerous’.

Under the new rules, vehicles will initially be asked to move on by site staff, and only those drivers who fail to adhere to the instructions given will be issued with a £70 Penalty Charge Notice. The fine will be reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days.

A spokesperson added: “Whilst we understand this may cause some frustration, by putting these measures in place ensures the safety of the public and our workforce.”