Switch to fortnightly bin collections in Wolverhampton to start by the end of the year

It was widely thought that the change from weekly collections would be introduced in September, but bosses now say that will not be the case.

The service will transfer back to the city council from private contractor Amey on Saturday but the authority said processing changes to staff contracts meant it would take time before the new collections start.

It means continued uncertainty about when the changes will come into force. Bosses say residents will be ‘kept up to date’.

A spokeswoman said: “The decision to introduce the service changes was made in February 2017. The service will transfer to the council from September 1.

“Our primary objective is to consult with staff regarding the timing and dates of the service changes before we finalise decisions.

"We cannot do this before they are employed by the council, as it is a legal requirement.

“This is a sensitive time for the employees and the council want to ensure this is managed properly.

"Changes to collections will take place later this year and will be carried out in a phased approach.

“We will keep residents up to date, so they are fully aware of any changes before they are implemented.”

Conservative opposition leader Wendy Thompson said it was ‘unfair’ for families not to know a firm date when bin collections would change: “We had the impression it was going to begin in September, then there was a lot of uncertainty and it became very vague. And it's still very vague.

"It gives the impression that people don't know what they are doing.

"This is a crucial service for residents and it is very unfair if people don't know where they stand regarding bin collections."

The controversial shift to weekly collections in Wolverhampton sparked public outcry when it was signed off by bosses back in March, having first been mooted in 2016.

Concerns have been raised the move could lead to overflowing bins and an increase in fly-tipping.