These are the proposed new opening times for recycling centres across Sheffield

The five centres across the city offer free disposal for household waste and the council is currently running two surveys to find out what residents think with the aim of making improvements.

Councillor Mark Jones, cabinet member for environment, streetscene and climate change, said: “We want to ensure that the sites provide the best service possible, and we encourage all residents to have their say.

“The information you provide will help us to adapt the opening hours according to your needs, as well as providing us with a clear understanding of the quality of service currently provided – good, bad and where improvements could be made.

“I want to thank every one of our staff, who have worked very hard throughout the pandemic to keep the centres available to all residents, and for their commitment in delivering a safe service despite seeing extremely high levels of demand throughout.”

Proposed changes include new summer opening hours. Currently they are open from 10am until 6pm between April and September.

But due to the popularity of the sites, cars start queuing before 10am waiting for the gates to open.

It is suggested the sites should open and close earlier to meet this demand, from 9am until 5pm or from 9.30am until 5.30am.

Under current Covid-19 guidelines, the number of people allowed in the centres were restricted.

At Longley Avenue West recycling centre, Shirecliffe, and Beighton Road recycling centre, Woodhouse, a maximum of six vehicles are allowed at any one time.

Blackstock Road recycling centre, Gleadless, will allow a maximum of eight vehicles, and at both Manchester Road recycling centre, Deepcar, and Greaves Lane recycling centre, High Green, the maximum number is four vehicles.

The council limited the number of vehicles to ensure social distancing.

It urged motorists not to queue outside because it could cause potential dangers to other road users.

Anyone not moving on when asked to could be given a £75 Penalty Charge Notice.

The other consultation asks recent users to rate their experience with the service, and the council said all feedback will be used to help make improvements.

Residents can take part in the opening hours survey until February 28 and the general experience survey will be available indefinitely.