A CRACKDOWN on traders wrongly using a household waste recycling centre has been launched by Stockton and Middlesbrough councils.

The Haverton Hill site, operated by Sita and used by the councils, is also visited by thousands of residents from both boroughs, but many traders use the complex, which is intended solely for household waste .

It is estimated that between 20 and 30 per cent of the waste delivered to the site is via unauthorised trade vehicles, which costs the councils about £100,000 per year.

A statement from the authorities said: "We are trying to get traders to use the legal route to get rid of their waste and reduce our costs.

"After all, it is not fair that council tax payers subsidise businesses for their waste disposal costs, which is what is effectively happening.

"Businesses have a duty to dispose of their waste responsibly and should consider this as a cost, in the same way as other utilities, such as gas or electric.

"It is also unfair on legitimate waste management companies, who operate in the area, that potential business is being denied to them."

From July 22, a barrier will be in operation to prevent access to vans which try to use the site to dispose of trade waste.

Residents wishing to visit the site with a van to dispose of household waste, should check the council first to obtain a permit.

The document will allow one entry to the site.

For residents of Stockton, the number to ring is (01642) 393602 and Middlesbrough is (01642) 726001.