A fault in the bookings system for Richmond's Townmead Road Recycling Centre let too many people bag a slot today, leading to long delays on the roads.

There was heavy traffic on Kew Road and the A316 as residents flocked to the facility off Mortlake Road in Kew.

Richmond Council posted the following message on the Townmead website and via its social media channels.

"Unfortunately due to an issue with the Townmead Road booking system - too many people have been able to book a slot today (Sunday).

"There are currently very long queues. If you have a slot for today, please consider moving to a different day and do not try and book any other slots for today.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Townmead Road moved to an online booking system in July in an attempt to cut waiting times.

Last week the council said one in four bookings are not being honoured and it urged people to cancel their slots if they can't attend.

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Residents expressed their frustrations as Sunday's booking system error left them stuck in traffic.

Stacey Nevin said: "Over an hour wasted so far & carnage on the roads as a result."

Dominic James said: "Gridlock around Townmead. Don't bother. It'll take you hours."

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