Confusion as local bin collections delayed by staff 'action' - which union says is not taking place

Residents in more than 60 Wirral streets did not have their bins collected yesterday, as the council warns of a "knock on effect" from alleged "action by refuse collectors".

In total, collections were missed in 67 streets in Heswall, Pensby, Thingwall, Irby, New Ferry, Eastham and Bromborough.

Wirral Council has contracted out its bin collection service to Biffa, but last night the local authority sent out a tweet on the issue.

It read: "Due to action by the refuse collectors, we have been advised that there will be some delays and disruption to bin collections.

"We will attempt to collect any missed bins the following day but there may be a knock on effect."

However, the union Unite, which represents the refuse workers employed by Biffa, said no such action is taking place.

A spokesperson for Unite said: "Our members employed by Biffa on the Wirral Council contract are working normally. There are no major industrial relations on this contract at this current time."

The council advised people to report any missed collections.

Its tweet continued: "Please ensure your bin contains the correct items and the lid is fully closed.

"Bins should be put out at the kerbside or at your designated collection point with the wheels facing the road bin by 7am on the day of collection.

"If your bin has not been collected by 5pm on your scheduled collection day, please report by clicking or tapping here.

"We understand residents will be frustrated by this news and the council is working closely with Biffa to understand the issues."

The Local Democracy Reporting Service approached Wirral Council for more information, but the authority said it could not comment any further.

Biffa also chose not to comment.