Neighbouring Derbyshire risks becoming Nottinghamshire’s waste bin, says GMB.
Members of GMB Union have today started five days of strike action at Veolia waste and recycling plants across Nottinghamshire.
The industrial action comes after service provider Veolia refused to negotiate a pay offer that reflects the cost of lviing crisis.
Mansfield’s Materials Recycling Facility, Ashfield’s Welsh Croft Close site and Bassetlaw’s Claylands Avenue site will all be impacted by strike action.
• Nottinghamshire councils update residents on household waste strike
These plants process household waste and recycling for over 250,000 homes in north Nottinghamshire.
Refuse collections for Mansfield, Ashfield and Bassetlaw are now being forced to make a 50 mile detour to drop off sites in Derbyshire.
Mick Coppin, GMB Organiser, said:
“Our members are on strike for a pay packet that covers the bills; it’s that simple.
“They’re minimum wage workers being treated with disdain by Veolia.
“For Veolia to think it’s fair to dump Nottinghamshire’s waste in Derbyshire’s creaking refuse collection sites is shocking.
“Derbyshire residents will no doubt resent Veolia creating a situation where their fine county is becoming Nottinghamshire’s waste bin in this way.
“It’s time for Veolia to commit to listening to our members and getting this settled once and for all”.
Nottinghamshire County Council said:
‘Waste collection services are expected to operate as normal during strike action by Veolia staff (25 September to 8 October).
‘Please check with your local district/borough council for updates to bin collections. Household Waste Recycling Centres should be open as normal.’
