We believe this is in part due to a reoccurrence of Covid-19 at our depot. Collecting bins and driving dustcarts is a physically demanding job, and the symptoms suffered have taken a considerable toll on our manual workers.

Efforts to find emergency staff cover post-pandemic has become much harder nationally. Agencies with which we have had long-standing relationships over many years are reporting that it has become very hard to find candidates for refuse & recycling staff, especially drivers.

During this time, we have prioritised collection in accordance with DEFRA guidance. Refuse, food waste and recycling are prioritised over garden and bulky waste collections, because they affect all residents in the borough and because the waste is more noxious.

All missed garden waste collections are being collected on a later date and residents can leave excess waste in refuse sacks alongside their bin.

We apologise for this ongoing issue and hope to resolve the situation soon. We thank you for your understanding and patience.