Barnsley Council has announced a temporary closure of the Smithies household waste recycling centre from Thursday until the end of September to allow the installation of a new drainage system and other essential maintenance.
Why the works are needed
The council says the drainage upgrades are intended to improve site safety and protect the local environment by reducing runoff and related hazards on site. This is the first phase of a borough-wide programme of improvements, with further works planned at other recycling centres later in the year and continuing into 2027.
What residents need to know
There will be a three-day transition period ahead of the full closure during which some containers will be removed. During the last week before the shutdown, the Smithies site will not be able to accept several specific categories of waste.
- Closure period: from Thursday until the end of September (full reopening date to be confirmed by the council)
- Three-day transition period immediately before closure, with reduced services
- Alternative local recycling centres will remain available; the council has promised to provide information on these facilities
| From (last three days) | Materials not accepted |
|---|---|
| Monday to Wednesday (final week) | Fridges, TVs, household batteries, lead-acid batteries, engine oil, cooking oil, textiles, media items, mixed glass, fluorescent tubes, ink cartridges, coffee pods, gas bottles, paint, vapes, plastics and cans |
"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 comment above was provided by Coun Paul Kelly, the cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways. He acknowledged that temporary closures can cause inconvenience and said the council would give as much prior notice as possible and signpost alternative facilities while the work is carried out.
Local impact and practical advice
Smithies is one of several sites used regularly by Barnsley residents to dispose of household recycling and bulky items. The temporary loss of the site for several months will concentrate demand on remaining centres; residents who use Smithies should allow extra time when travelling to alternatives and check what each site can accept before they travel.
Practical points for residents:
- Check the council website or social media for a list of alternative recycling centres and any booking requirements.
- Hold on to restricted items listed above until Smithies reopens, or take them to another facility that can accept them — particularly hazardous items such as batteries, paint and gas bottles, which require careful handling.
- Plan for potentially longer queues at other Barnsley sites during the closure period.
Further phases of improvement works are expected to be rolled out at other recycling centres across the borough later this year and into 2027. The council has not yet published a complete schedule of sites and dates for the later phases; residents should monitor official Barnsley Council communications for updates.
The council emphasised the long-term safety and environmental benefits of the drainage scheme while asking for public patience during the temporary disruption.
