Homes in Middleton go without bin collections as Covid hits workforce

Rochdale council apologised for failing to collect paper recycling in Middleton, Bamford and Norden

Homes in ‘rural’ parts of Middleton did not have a bin collection this week due to the workforce being hit by Covid-19.

In a tweet yesterday evening (Tuesday), Rochdale council apologised for failing to collect paper recycling in Middleton, Bamford and Norden – and advised there would also be disruption the following day.

Borough residents were told to put their bins out on their next scheduled date – and to check the council website for further details.

More than 1,500 properties were affected over the two days.

The authority has confirmed the problem was caused by crew members testing positive for Covid-19,  with colleagues also having to isolate as a result.

Martin Taylor, head of environmental management, said: “We needed to suspend two rural/narrow access collection rounds scheduled to collect paper and card on Tuesday, June 22 and Wednesday, June 23 due to staff shortages. 

“Both crews working these rounds have needed to self-isolate due to two crew members testing positive via our regular FAST testing programme, even though both were asymptomatic.”

Mr Taylor said the health of refuse workers had to come first, but steps were being taken to to get on top of the situation.

He added: “Staff wellbeing is our priority, but by pooling resources, we will try to collect these missed paper and card collections on Saturday 26 June and Monday 28 June. 

“We ask all residents to keep up to date with any bin collection changes via our social media channels or website.”

A similar situation has arisen in Stockport, where coronavirus-related absences among refuse collectors have also caused problems.

Disruption to the collection of green garden waste bins is expected to continue until at least the end of the month.

Rochdale borough residents can find further information at: rochdale.gov.uk/bins

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