Warning to Walsall residents as visitors face 40 minute wait for tips

The issue coincides with bin workers going on strike at Birmingham City Council which has seen rubbish piled high and an increase in rodent activity in that area.

Walsall Council said it believes there is increased usage from non-Walsall residents, but did not confirm whether the visitors were from Birmingham or not.

Now, anybody visiting the facilities will be required to prove that they are a Walsall resident by showing a driver's license, recent utility bill or council tax letter.

The authority said it’s normal for the service to get busier around this time of year but the demand has been even higher than usual.

On Tuesday (March 11), drivers had to wait 40 minutes before being able to access the Fryers Road tip.

The queue was so long at times that vehicles blocked Fryers Road and caused issues at the Leamore Lane traffic lights.

Queues for the Merchants Way tip were also bad, causing congestion as far as Morrions island at some points.

The council has confirmed that the tips are available for Walsall residents only.

Birmingham residents are unable to use the service, despite the bin strikes.

Walsall Council has warned all visitors to bring some form of ID to prove residency.

A spokesperson for Walsall Council said: “As spring arrives, we tend to see our recycling centres get busier but we are experiencing even higher demand than usual at the moment.

“We believe some of the increased usage is from people who are not Walsall residents. As a result, we will require proof of residency, which will be requested upon arrival.

“This can include driving licenses, council tax letters and utility bills.”