Local authorities across the North East of England are facing challenges in accepting fridges and freezers at household waste recycling centres due to a national backlog in appliance disposal. The issue has prompted some councils to temporarily suspend or closely monitor the acceptance of these bulky items while efforts continue to resolve the situation.
Last week, North Tyneside Council announced it had paused the acceptance of fridges and freezers at its Household Waste Recycling Centre in Wallsend. Samantha Dand, the council’s director of environment, stated that the authority is collaborating with its waste management partners to track the situation closely and aims to restore normal collection and disposal services as soon as possible. Residents are being kept informed of developments through official channels.
The backlog stems from disruptions at specialised recycling facilities caused by fires and shutdowns, compounded by an increased volume of appliance purchases during recent hot weather, according to information from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the National Association of Waste Disposal Officers.
Other councils in the region have taken varying approaches amid the ongoing constraints. The South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership, which includes Gateshead, Sunderland, and South Tyneside councils, reported that they continue to collect fridges and freezers. A spokesperson noted that the partnership is working closely with contractors to ensure recycling services remain operational. South Tyneside Council further advised residents that items could still be dropped off at its ‘Recycling Village’ or arranged for bulky waste collection.
Durham County Council confirmed awareness of the national challenges affecting fridge and freezer recycling but indicated no immediate change to services. James Gilchrist, head of environment for the council, noted that the authority is cooperating with the company managing its household waste sites to maintain disposal options for residents. Any service adjustments would be communicated through standard council communication channels.
Newcastle City Council continues to accept fridges and freezers at its Household Waste Recycling Centres but is actively monitoring the situation. Councillor Peter Lovatt, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local services, acknowledged the shortage of specialist recycling capacity nationwide and indicated that the council is reviewing its procedures regularly in response to evolving national conditions.
Northumberland County Council reported no full suspension of acceptance for these appliances within its recycling centre network but reminded residents that the Household Waste Recycling Centres are available exclusively for Northumberland residents and do not accept trade or commercial waste.
The situation has underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in managing bulky waste amid external pressures on specialised recycling infrastructure. Authorities continue to coordinate with stakeholders to address the backlog and minimize disruption to residents’ disposal options.