A TRIP to the tip is a necessity now and again.

After a DIY makeover or hours spent clearing the garden, the next job is to fill the boot and head to the nearest household waste centre.

But from June 1, Lancashire County Council is introducing a pay-as-you-throw charge on people dumping ‘inert’ waste.

Those without a waste licence will have to pay £3.50 per bag.

Payment will be taken on site by credit or debit card. No cash or cheque payments will be allowed. Anyone unable to pay will be asked to leave and return with payment.

The simplest thing to do is to apply for a free permit but it’s an added layer of bureaucracy and no doubt many will be caught out when they arrive with a packed car.

The waste permit allows only 10 free bags of rubbish to be deposited per year, before the £3.50 charge comes into play.

Commentators have expressed concerns and there is a real fear that increasing numbers of people will simply fly-tip, costing councils more in the long-term.

People living close to the borders of Blackburn with Darwen will be tempted to use the borough’s facilities and the whole idea discourages people from doing the right thing. The council has to respond to cuts, but on this occasion it needs to look elsewhere.