Public bins overflowing amid Warrington bin strikes

A fourth wave of industrial action began today, Tuesday, which is set to run until December 4.

This would mean that there have been no regular bin collections since October 3, when the first wave of strikes began.

Bin strikes began as part of a national dispute regarding pay and working conditions of trade union members from Unite.

Bin strikes began on October 3 (Image: Newsquest)

However, a national pay deal was agreed upon by Unite and two other unions - despite this, strikes continue in Warrington.

The local refuse collectors say they want a better deal from Warrington Borough Council, with the current wave of strikes set to continue until early December.

Warrington Borough Council has sought legal intervention in recent weeks, though this has been unsuccessful in bringing the strikes to an end - the council said: "We appreciate that this will bring little comfort to our residents whose lives are being significantly impacted and disrupted by the strike by Unite and their members."

Residents are now complaining that public bins remain uncollected, allowing rubbish and waste to pile high on streets across the town.

One resident spoke to the Warrington Guardian about the issues they are facing, adding: "Much of Warrington looks pretty much the same at the moment.

"It’s a health hazard and it's totally unacceptable."

Overflowing bins can be seen across the town amid strike action (Image: Supplied)

Tips in Warrington have seen their operational hours extended amid the industrial action, which will allow residents to dispose of household waste.

When asked about refunding council tax to residents who have not received a vital council service, the council confirmed that it would not be giving taxpayers any money back.

It also added that it is illegal for the council to hire private contractors to dispose of household waste during the strikes.