Barnsley residents have been told to expect temporary closures at local recycling centres as the council begins a programme of drainage improvements aimed at enhancing site safety and protecting the environment. The work will be carried out in phases so that alternative facilities remain available while each site is closed.
Phased closures starting at Smithies Lane
The first site to be affected is Smithies Lane Recycling Centre, which will be closed from 6 August until the end of September. Ahead of the closure, the council has warned that there will be a short period of restricted services while some containers are removed from the site.
| Site | Restriction period | Full closure |
|---|---|---|
| Smithies Lane Recycling Centre | 3–5 August (limited acceptance) | 6 August–end of September |
During the three-day restriction at Smithies Lane, items that the site will not be able to accept include a wide range of household waste streams and hazardous items. Residents are being asked to plan ahead and use other borough tips for these materials while their nearest site is closed.
- Closure start date for Smithies Lane: 6 August
- Restricted items period: 3–5 August
- Estimated reopening: end of September
“These planned drainage improvement works will help protect the environment, improve site safety and ensure our recycling centres continue to operate safely and efficiently.”
The statement came from Councillor Paul Kelly, the council’s cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways. The council says the phased approach is intended to reduce disruption by allowing residents to access alternative tips while any one site is out of service.
What residents need to know
Those who use Smithies Lane should note the list of items not being accepted during 3–5 August. The council has made clear that a number of containers will be removed temporarily, so items normally deposited in those containers cannot be accepted over the restriction days.
Although the council has emphasised that the works will improve safety and long-term operation of the borough’s recycling centres, residents are advised to check the council’s website or contact its waste services for details on which alternative sites to use and any changes to opening hours while works are under way.
Local authorities frequently schedule maintenance of this kind to address drainage and surface-water issues that, if left unattended, can present health and safety risks and hinder vehicle movements around recycling facilities. By carrying out the work in phases, Barnsley Council aims to balance essential infrastructure improvements with continued public access to recycling services.
