Gloucestershire calls on Government to act over national fridge disposal crisis

The letter follows the temporary suspension of fridge and freezer collections at Gloucestershire's Household Recycling Centres (HRCs), a step that has been taken by many councils as the waste industry struggles with a shortage of processing capacity. Gloucestershire County Council has previously said the issue is national in nature and outside the council's control. 

In the letter, Cllr Ashley Bowkett said: "This is not a Gloucestershire problem. It is a national issue that is affecting councils across the country and causing frustration for residents who want to dispose of old appliances responsibly. 

"I have written to the Minister to set out the impact this is having locally and to ask what support the Government can provide to help resolve the situation and restore normal disposal arrangements as quickly as possible.  

"We know residents are concerned about the potential risk of fly-tipping and we share those concerns. We are monitoring the situation closely and working with our contractors and partners to minimise any impact." 

Cllr Ashley Bowkett also urged residents to be vigilant when arranging for unwanted fridges or freezers to be removed. "The evidence shows that the majority of fly-tipping is carried out by rogue waste operators rather than individuals. Residents can help protect themselves and the environment by making sure anyone they pay to remove waste is a licensed waste carrier. 

"If waste is illegally dumped and traced back to the householder, they can still be held responsible. Asking to see a waste carrier licence is a simple step that can make a real difference. We know most residents want to do the right thing to protect the environment." 

The council is also reminding residents that retailer take-back schemes, city, district and borough council bulky waste collections, and the safe storage of appliances at home remain potential alternatives while the national issue continues. 

Cllr Bowkett added: "We understand the inconvenience this is causing and appreciate residents' patience while the industry works through this backlog. We will continue pressing for a solution and keep residents updated on any developments." 

The council also highlighted that previous short-term closures of household recycling centres does not suggest a direct increase in fly-tipping but it will be monitoring this closely. Further updates will be published on the council's website and social media channels as the situation develops.