A report to the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee on 9 June 2026 outlines the results of analysis covering site condition, usage, costs and long-term sustainability.
The review follows a commitment agreed by Full Council in February 2025 to explore how waste and recycling services can be developed and improved, including the future role of the region’s network of HWRCs alongside wider investment such as the new Dumfries Zero Waste Park.
Dumfries and Galloway currently has 12 recycling centres, providing a high level of coverage for communities across a large rural area. While this ensures strong local access, the report notes that there is an over‑provision of sites relative to population and demand, and that the current model is not financially or operationally sustainable in its present form.
The review identifies significant variation in how sites are used, with busier locations delivering better value for money, while some lower-use sites operate at a higher cost. It also highlights the need for nearly £470,000 of capital investment to bring sites up to a minimum operational standard.
In addition, the development of the Dumfries Zero Waste Park presents an opportunity to modernise and reshape services. The report highlights that a more efficient and sustainable model may involve a reduced number of strategically located sites, supported by investment in modern facilities.
At this stage, councillors are being asked to note the findings of the review and agree the key areas for further development. A further report will be brought back to committee in September 2026 to seek approval for a formal consultation on future options.
Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Andy Ferguson, said:
“This report provides councillors with a detailed and evidence-based assessment of our current Household Waste Recycling Centre network. It highlights clearly where the service is performing well, but also where there are financial and operational pressures that must be addressed to ensure long-term sustainability.
“The recommendations, centred on national guidance and standards, enable us to begin a structured and informed conversation about how the service should evolve, while maintaining a strong focus on effective delivery and value for money.”
Vice-Chair, Councillor Tony Berretti, added:
“Our recycling centres are an important service for communities across Dumfries and Galloway, particularly in rural areas where access is vital. This work is about making sure that service remains reliable, accessible and fit for the future.
“By reviewing how the network operates and engaging directly with communities, we can shape a system that continues to deliver real benefits for residents while making the best use of our resources.”
If agreed, the next phase of the project will focus on developing proposals ahead of formal consultation, allowing communities and stakeholders to help shape the future of recycling centre provision across the region.