Warning over delays to recycling collections in Sandwell

Sandwell Council said it was prioritising household waste collections as Covid-19 continues to affect the amount of staff off sick or self-isolating.

Any bins that have not been emptied should be left out until bin lorries are available to collect them, the council said.

Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: "We are sorry for any inconvenience to anyone whose bin collection is delayed.

“Our recycling teams have caught up with the majority of blue lid bin collections from last week following the suspension in service the previous week. There are a small number of bins remaining from Friday which are our current priority.

“However, as we have entered this week, the waste services team have unfortunately experienced further Covid-19 related staff absences.

“This will inevitably lead to delays to some bin collections.

"If the bins in your street are not collected on your usual day, please bear with the crews and leave your full bin at the edge of the property until it has been emptied. Crews will get to them as soon as possible.”

HGV drivers who usually carry out road sweeping duties are currently supporting waste collections, while street cleaning continues with a reduced service focused on emptying litter bins and mobile street cleaning teams.

If residents have more waste or recycling than will fit into their bin, they are advised to keep this back and place it in the bin once it has been emptied ready for the next recycling collection.

Councillor Crompton added: “We are aware that some residents have had to wait longer for the first resumed recycling collection as well there having been some missed collections due to the snow prior to the suspension.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank everyone for their patience, understanding and ongoing support for the crews as we continue to deal with challenges as a result of the pandemic.”