Southend Council said the issue is affecting local authorities across England after several specialist treatment sites were taken out of operation. The disruption has prompted councils and waste operators to introduce temporary measures while the industry works to restore processing capacity. Although Household Waste Recycling Centres remain open, Leigh Marshes Household Waste Recycling Centre is currently unable to accept fridges and freezers. Residents who need to dispose of these items are instead being directed to Stock Road Household Waste Recycling Centre. As a result of the ongoing issues, bookings for fridge and freezer collections through Southend Council's bulky waste service have been temporarily suspended.