Hazardous waste
Service update
HWRCs may need to close temporarily at certain times. This is to ensure staff can take necessary breaks in the shade and stay properly hydrated.
Take extra care while on site, metal surfaces such as handrails and container sides can become extremely hot when exposed to direct sunlight and may cause burns. If possible, please:
- plan your visit outside of peak heat hours (1pm to 3pm)
- wear protective gloves and sensible footwear if your visit cannot be avoided
Any temporary closures will be in place to protect both visitors and staff. We will aim to maintain normal opening hours wherever possible and appreciate your understanding.
Hazardous waste is any liquid or solid material that may cause harm to people or the environment if not disposed of correctly. It is illegal to mix hazardous waste with other types of waste.
Certain types of hazardous waste are accepted at our recycling centres.
| Item | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Antifreeze | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. 15 litres maximum quantity - Disposal of larger quantities will be subject to checks to confirm the antifreeze has come from a household source |
| Asbestos | No | Asbestos disposal guidance |
| Car batteries | Yes | |
| Clinical waste | No | Clinical waste guidance |
| Engine oil (used) | Yes | 15 litres maximum quantity - Disposal of larger quantities will be subject to checks to confirm the oil has come from a household source |
| Fire extinguishers | Yes | Must be domestic use - weighing less than 1kg. Refillable fire extinguishers should be returned to the manufacturer or supplier |
| Fluorescent tubes | Yes | |
| Fridges and freezers | Yes | |
| Gas bottles | Yes | Must be domestic use. Refillable gas bottles should be returned to the manufacturer or supplier |
| Household Chemicals | Yes | Up to 5 litres of hazardous household chemicals (read our full guidance) accepted per month |
| Industrial chemical and radioactive hazardous waste | No | We are unable to dispose of industrial chemical and radioactive hazardous waste. Please seek professional disposal advice |
| Insulation (fibreglass) | Yes | Please ensure it is bagged |
| Mercury | No | Please seek professional disposal advice |
| Oil filters (automotive) | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Paint/varnish/stains | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Portable batteries | Yes | |
| Sharps (such as medical needles) | No | See clinical waste |
| TVs and monitors | Yes | Please ask a member of staff. Must be domestic use |
| Tyres | No | Please check with your local garage or tyre retailer to see if they accept additional tyres. A small fee may be charged |
| Weed killer | Yes | Up to 5 litres of hazardous household chemicals (read our full guidance) accepted per month |
Last updated 19 January 2026