Council to take reopening proposal to Executive in September
The deputy leader of Bradford Council has confirmed the authority will ask its Executive Committee to consider proposals to reopen Sugden End Household Waste Recycling Centre, the tip off the A629 Halifax Road that has been closed for more than two years.
The site, located between Cross Roads and Flappit to the south of Keighley, was shut by the previous Labour administration on 1 April 2024 as part of a package of cost-cutting measures. Its closure prompted public backlash from residents across Keighley and neighbouring communities.
In a video filmed at the closed gates, Councillor Andrew Judson (Reform UK, Keighley West), who is deputy leader of the council, said the authority had heard concerns not only from Keighley but from surrounding areas including Worth Valley, Bingley, Denholme, Wilsden and Cullingworth. He confirmed the matter will be taken to the Executive Committee in September for detailed consideration of feasibility, operating costs and affordability.
"Now we have been listening to all the voices from all of the areas... This will allow other parties and people to ask questions regarding feasibility, how we’ve costed it to make sure that we can afford to operate the site," Councillor Judson said.
Process, scrutiny and timescale
Judson emphasised the report will follow "due process" and that scrutiny could add delays as councillors and officers check the figures and the practicalities of running the site. He warned that the route to reopening may not be immediate but pledged further public updates as the process develops.
- Site: Sugden End Household Waste Recycling Centre, off A629 Halifax Road
- Closed: 1 April 2024
- Next step: Executive Committee consideration in September
Local impact and public reaction
Residents and community commentators have argued that local recycling centres reduce the incidence and cost of fly-tipping. Social-media responses referenced in coverage suggest some believe operating tips may be more cost-effective than clearing up illegal waste. The council will therefore need to set out the financial case for reopening, including capital and running costs and projected usage volumes.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Closure implemented | 1 April 2024 |
| Executive Committee review | September (as announced) |
If the Executive instructs further work, councillors from across political groups will be able to question assumptions about costings and operational logistics before any decision to reopen is taken. For residents in Keighley and nearby villages, the outcome will determine whether they regain a local facility for household waste recycling or must continue to travel further afield.
The council has not released detailed cost estimates or a proposed operating model as yet; these are expected to be included in the report to the Executive. The announcement marks a significant shift from the decision taken by the former Labour-run administration and underlines how changes in political leadership can affect local services.
Further public updates have been promised by Councillor Judson as the proposal progresses through the council’s governance process.
