Wakefield Council is continuing to accept fridge freezers at its Household Waste Recycling Centres, but faces storage constraints due to a national shortage of specialist recycling facilities. A major fire at a processing facility near Huddersfield last month has worsened the problem across the country.
Lou Redpath, Service Director for Environmental Services at Wakefield Council, said: "This is affecting councils all over the country. Many have already had to stop accepting fridge freezers, due to the lack of capacity to safely store them before recycling treatment."
The council and its waste management partner Biffa currently handle around 230 fridge freezers every week. The pair are working to find a temporary storage solution to maintain the service.
What residents can do now
Redpath urged residents to explore alternatives where possible. Storage space is very limited, but several options are available:
Store unwanted appliances safely at home until national recycling capacity improves. Use retailer take-back schemes — most retailers collect and recycle old appliances when delivering a replacement. Consider repairing appliances, as spare parts such as drawers, shelves and seals are often inexpensive and easy to source online. Reuse appliances still in working order by donating them to charity or offering them through second-hand websites and community groups.
Redpath added: "We know people don't want to have unwanted appliances hanging around. But if you are paying someone to remove your waste, please make sure they are licensed waste carriers to avoid fly tipping." Anyone who arranges for waste removal remains legally responsible for ensuring it is disposed of correctly.
A Biffa representative said: "We are working with local authorities and industry partners to identify safe solutions. Residents can help by using retailer take-back services when purchasing replacement appliances and by considering reuse or repair where appropriate."
The industry is warning that the national shortage of storage facilities could extend into 2027. Wakefield Council and Biffa will continue to monitor the situation closely. Follow Wakefield Recycles on Facebook for updates or sign up to Your District for the latest news.
