TIPS across Hampshire are set to remain open amid the third lockdown, a local authority has confirmed.

Hampshire County Council (HCC) said all of the county's household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) - including the Andover site in Scott Close - will remain open for those who need to use them.

Residents who want to visit a tip will need to make a booking in advance.

HCC is urging the public to check the website ahead of their visit in case a site needs to close at short notice due to staffing levels being impacted by COVID-19.

Deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and environment, Cllr Rob Humby, said: "The booking system at the HWRCs is working well, and social distancing measures are in place.

"The sites will continue to accept as many of the usual household waste materials as they can while the onward market accepts them.

"However, I would ask that people consider if they really do need to make a trip to the tip at this time and, if they can, to either use their kerbside waste collections or store their waste safely at home until restrictions are lifted."

Booking slots are available seven days in advance at each of Hampshire’s HWRCs and can be made online at www.hants.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/recyclingcentres/book-appointment or, for those without internet access, by phone on 02380 179 949, between Monday and Friday 9am to 5:30pm.