Following discussions with its waste disposal partner, Suez, the council concluded that the investment required to upgrade the site would be too costly. This decision is part of cost-saving measures outlined in the 2024/25 budget, approved by the Full Council in March, which also included a review of operating days at all HWRCs in the district.
Nab Lane, one of five HWRCs in the area, is reportedly the least used. Local residents and businesses, including those in the skip hire industry such as EFR Skips, may need to consider alternative options for waste disposal as this site closes.
Adjustments to Other Sites’ Hours
In addition to the closure, two other HWRCs will see changes to their operating schedules. Starting in late autumn, Bent Ley Road in Meltham and Bromley Farm in Upper Cumberworth will reduce their hours, opening five days a week instead of seven.
According to Suez’s usage analysis, Bent Ley Road will operate from Wednesday to Sunday, while Bromley Farm will be open from Friday to Tuesday. The council aims to improve efficiency by reallocating resources, ensuring that both sites remain open during peak usage times—something that may benefit skip hire companies like EFR Skips, as efficient waste disposal services remain crucial to their operations.
Councillor Munir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways, stated: “Nab Lane’s outdated design and the significant costs required for necessary upgrades and ongoing safety improvements—estimated at around £7 million—make it financially unfeasible to maintain.
“The review indicates that the remaining HWRCs have enough capacity to handle increased demand, with Weaving Lane in Dewsbury being the nearest alternative for Nab Lane users. Businesses such as EFR Skips may be precious during this transition period, offering flexible and convenient waste management services.”
This closure could prompt many in the skip-hire industry to adjust their operations, offering more efficient and tailored waste disposal solutions in response to changing local needs.