Reuse of Unwanted Items
In the waste hierarchy, reuse is preferred to recycling. That's why we ask that, where possible, large household items that are still suitable for use are donated through one of the charity collections listed on our Waste Reuse page.
Why should I use a charity collection?
Donating reusable items helps support local charities and community projects, gives items a second life, and reduces the amount of waste requiring collection and disposal. Many charities also offer free collection services, making reuse a convenient and environmentally friendly option.
I have items that are too small to arrange a large collection for, what should I do?
We recommend visiting our Charity Recycling page for information on local charities and organisations that accept smaller items for reuse or recycling.
Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs)
are a convenient way to dispose of a wide range of household waste and unwanted items. Many materials, including wood, metal, electrical items, garden waste and textiles, can be recycled, helping to reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal. If your items are no longer suitable for reuse, consider taking them to your local HWRC, where they can be managed safely and responsibly.
Please note that vehicle and trailer restrictions may apply.
Where is my nearest HWRC?
To find your nearest HWRC, visit our Household Waste Recycling Centres webpage or use the Stratford-on-Avon District Council app.
Please note that some HWRCs require advance booking at certain times.
Bulky Household Waste Collections
If your items are not suitable for reuse, donation or you are unable to take it to your nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre, you can use our chargeable bulky household waste collection service.
Please note that this service is not intended for house clearances. If you have more than five items to be collected, you may wish to consider using a professional house clearance service.
Information you need to know before booking a collection
- When making a booking, you must specify the items to be collected and the collection point.
- If the items presented for collection do not match those listed in the original booking, the collection crew reserves the right to refuse collection.
- Once a booking has been made, it cannot be amended online.
- If you need to change your booking, please contact us as soon as possible on 01789 260616. We will cancel your original booking and arrange a new one for you.
- All items must be capable of being safely lifted by two people. They must be placed outside the property boundary, in a clearly visible and accessible location, by 6:00am on the scheduled collection day.
- Items must not obstruct or pose a danger to members of the public.
- If an item does not meet health and safety requirements, the collection crew will not collect it and will notify the Council of the reason.
- Where possible, upholstered items such as sofas should be covered to protect them from rain and prevent them from becoming waterlogged before collection.
- If the item you wish to dispose of is not listed on the online booking form, please contact us to check whether it can be collected.
- Please do not use the free text box to list additional items. Any items not selected during the booking process may not be collected.
If you would like to book a collection, please ensure that you have read and understood our full list of Terms and Conditions before you apply for it online, or contact us using the details below.
How much is a bulky household waste collection?
In line with our fees and charges, we charge the following for collections:
- 1 to 3 items: £51.00
- 4 to 5 items: £62.00
We will not collect more than five items.
What items can be collected?
List of items that can be collected
Please note that we are currently unable to accept bookings for fridges, freezers, or other cooling appliances. We appreciate your patience while this service is unavailable. To find out more information, please visit Warwickshire County Council's webpage.
What items cannot be collected?
The following list is not exhaustive. If you are booking a collection with us, and find that your item is not listed on our website, please check with us before proceeding.
- Builders' waste
- Business and commercial waste
- Commercial fridges/freezers
- DIY waste
- Fitted kitchen units
- Garden waste
- Gas bottles
- Pianos
- Roofing materials
- Sheds
- Sink units and baths
- Toilets
If you would like to proceed with a bulky household waste collection, please click on the following link to our online form, or call our contact centre using the number provided at the bottom of the webpage.
Apply online for bulky waste collection
Third Party Collections
If you cannot reuse your items, donate them or use our bulky household waste collection service, you may consider using a waste removal company.
We recommend checking their details on the official Defra website, first. Registered carriers are legally authorised to transport and manage waste, helping to ensure that your waste is handled responsibly and disposed of correctly.
If you give your waste to an unregistered carrier and it is fly-tipped, you could be held responsible under your Duty of Care. To read more information on this, please visit our webpage on Environmental Crime.
Contact
- Email: info@stratford-dc.gov.uk
- Telephone: 01789 260616