Earlier bin collections for staff to beat heat

TWO councils have changed their bin collection times to allow workers to complete their rounds before the hot weather hits its peak.

Leicester is predicted highs of 31C and 32C as we hit the mid-week mark.

Both Blaby District Council and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council were asking residents to put their bins out by 6am today, Thursday and Friday to cut down the time their crews are out in the highest temperatures. Hinckley and Bosworth lead for street scene services, Councillor Bill Crooks, said: “Our crews do a fantastic job, it’s challenging working outside in extreme weather conditions.

“Over this extremely hot period please do think about the crew and help them where possible by putting your bins out the night before or by 6am at the latest and letting your friends and neighbours know about the earlier collection time.

“During the heatwave last month lots of residents kindly offered cold drinks to the crews to help them to keep cool, so we know how much people like to help out if they can.”

Oadby and Wigston, Melton, Harborough, North West Leicestershire and Charnwood councils have all confirmed their bin collections will be running as normal this week.

However, a spokesman for Harborough District Council added they would be monitoring the temperatures throughout the week.

A Charnwood Borough Council spokesman said bins in the borough needed to be out by 6am as usual. “The council and Serco will continue to work closely over the next few days,” he added. “Residents are encouraged to keep up to date by checking the council’s website.”

A North West Leicestershire’s District Council spokesman said it will let residents know if there is any need to make changes.

A spokesperson for Leicester City Council said she is not aware of any changes to scheduling this week.