Fridges and freezers turned away from Southend tip as national recycling shortage continues

Fridges and freezers are no longer being accepted at one of Southend’s tips, with residents being asked to hold onto unwanted appliances for longer and urged not to fly-tip them.

Leigh Marshes Waste & Recycling Centre is currently unable to accept fridges and freezers, while the council has also temporarily suspended bulky waste bookings for the appliances.

The disruption is being caused by a national shortage of specialist recycling capacity after several processing sites across the UK were taken out of operation.

Fridges and freezers can only be processed at a limited number of specialist facilities because refrigerant gases and insulating foams must be safely removed to prevent harmful emissions.

The situation has been worsened by commercial failures and operational incidents, while recent hot weather has reportedly increased appliance replacements and reduced processing rates at some facilities.

The National Association of Waste Disposal Officers says more appliances are entering the system than can currently be processed, warning that growing stockpiles and further collection suspensions could increase the risk of fly-tipping.

Southend’s Stock Road tip is still accepting fridges and freezers where disposal is necessary, although residents are being urged to hold off taking them for now to ease pressure on the system.

Councillor Cheryl Nevin, Cabinet Member for Civic Pride, said: “This is a national issue that is affecting councils across the country, and we are proactively doing everything we can to minimise disruption for Southend residents.

“If you have a fridge or freezer that is still safe to keep for a little longer, delaying disposal where possible will help reduce pressure on the system while the industry works to restore capacity. We’re grateful to residents for their patience and support.”

Southend residents react with frustration

Richard Winch said: “This shows the need for more recycling processing centres. We keep hearing that A I. will replace jobs, but here is something which A.I. can’t do.”

Micky Carter said: “It’s now becoming a joke with these waste disposal depots. You try to do the right thing and they turn your away. I went to Southend tip on Tuesday with 9 rubble bags and was told you can only dump 6!”

Southend-on-Sea residents that want to use either of Southend’s tips are reminded that valid identification is required. A current driving licence or recent council tax bill can be used. Driving licences must be valid and council tax bills must be for the year in which access is sought. The name on the council tax bill must match any other ID presented. Access to the tip may be denied if acceptable identification is not provided.