Bin collections in Croydon continue to be affected by driver shortage
By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter
Croydon council has been accused of using Brexit as a “cop out” as delays to bin collections persist across the borough.
The latest advice from the authority is not to report missed collections as the council and its contractor Veolia work to solve the problem of a driver shortage.
At a council meeting on Monday, October 11, a member of the public said “seems much more like a cop out for the council’s poor contractual management”.
He added: “Resolve this driver issue and make sure collections are made on time.”
But cabinet member for sustainable Croydon, Councillor Muhammad Ali said that Veolia is working to solve the problem by offering incentives to new and existing staff.
He said: “In June, Veolia informed us they were finding it hard to find drivers, this meant we had to deploy our business continuity plan to make sure we deliver a service that prioritises statutory services.”
This means that general waste is prioritised over recycling collections.
He said that Brexit is a factor in the crisis as well as the recent fuel crisis.
But the local man hit back saying: “I think it’s quite extraordinary that you’re blaming Brexit. I really don’t think you can expect residents to believe that.
“Is this just another example of the council’s failure.”
At the moment, locals are asked not to report missed collections but just leave waste and recycling out for crews to collect when they can.
On Tuesday, October 12, those living in five postcodes, CR0, CR2, CR6, CR8 and CR9, may experience delays.
Sarah Hayward, interim executive director for place, said: “We apologise wholeheartedly to our residents for the inconvenience this is causing them – we understand how frustrating it is when waste and recycling collections are delayed.
“Please bear with us and be assured that our crews are working hard to get to you as soon as they can. We are working closely with our contractor Veolia to find solutions and will keep you updated.”
Updates on the latest areas affected can be found here: www.croydon.gov.uk/rubbish-and-recycling/bins/rubbish-bins/report-rubbish-collection-problem.
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