Biffa 'working flat out' to clear wheelie bin backlog, assures Wirral Council



WIRRAL'S wheelie bin collections were affected this week by bad weather and roads blocked by parked cars, according to contractors Biffa.

The Globe has received several complaints from councillors and residents in Moreton and New Brighton about the non-collection of grey bins on promised days.

A statement issued by Wirral Council today said: "On behalf of Wirral Council, Biffa are working flat out to resume normal refuse and recycling collections and clear the back-log caused by last week’s weather conditions.

"Eleven additional collection crews have been working every day since Sunday, December 27 to collect the back-log of missed green and grey bins as quickly and efficiently as possible - prioritising green bins Sunday and Monday and grey bins Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Collection crews have experienced difficulties accessing some roads due to parked cars.

"On Thursday, December 31 they will revisit all properties that they were unable to access earlier in the week. Residents of New Brighton can expect their grey bins to be collected today.

"Collections were suspended last week due to the extreme low temperatures and dangerous icy conditions, especially prevalent on our side streets.

"After extensive and continuous risk assessment, the large refuse collection vehicles were withdrawn due to the high likelihood that they could easily lose control on the ice and potentially cause serious damage to property and the public.

"We apologise for any inconvenience that residents have experienced as a result of last week's weather conditions, but public safety is of utmost importance."

The statement adds: "There are no collections planned for Friday, January 1.

"Residents that normally receive a Friday collection will have their bin collected on Saturday, January 2."

Biffa will take any additional side bags placed beside the green bins arising from late collections.

Ensure all extra rubbish is secured to prevent litter from escaping and that no sharp objects are placed inside the bags.

Side waste will not however be taken alongside grey recycling bins.

THE GLOBE