The Greater Manchester Combined Authority has warned that tips could close if visitors do not abide to social distancing rules.

The warning follows concerns that tips are becoming overcrowded as more users flock to them after the easing of some restrictions.

From today, restrictions on cars accessing the recycling centres will be lifted, but bosses are urging people to respect social distancing.

Astley Bridge resident Stephanie Mansell has visited the Hurstwood Court Recycling Centre on Raikes Lane, which is owned by the GMCA but operated by SUEZ, three times since it reopened at the beginning of May.

Impressed by how the tip was organised on the first visit, she says she has now noticed a lack of concern towards social distancing from visitors.

She said: “They controlled everything very well when they first opened, but now you can park in any bay you want and you’re literally rubbing shoulders with people.

“I’ve seen more than one person leaving the cars and staff tell them to social distance but they only seem to argue back, people were getting angry."

A spokeswoman for the GMCA said: “The household waste recycling centres have re-opened in a managed phased approach but covid-19 government lockdown restrictions and Public Health England guidance do still apply and therefore this is not business as usual.

“Many sites are operating reduced opening hours and there are a limited number of recycling containers in place.

“We have new site rules similar to those in a supermarket that are in place for the safety of users and the SUEZ staff.

“We must urge members of the public to follow these rules; these include only one person allowed out of their vehicle to unload and keeping two metres away from other visitors.

“SUEZ staff are also wearing full face visors to allow them to speak to members of the public and offer guidance whilst on site. “We are monitoring these new arrangements and failure to follow these rules or any threatening behaviour will not be tolerated and may lead to sites having to be closed.”

Bolton Council said: "We have been monitoring traffic levels and we are stopping the odd and even number plate system from June 6 and vehicle number plates will not be checked. Due to social distancing measures in place, please be prepared to queue.”

The council has asked that people only visit the recycling centres if they really need to, and to separate items prior to arrival to speed up the process.