If you’re bin hasn’t been collected due to adverse weather, then read on for what you need to do.
Stafford Borough Council says crews will continue collecting waste wherever it is considered safe to do so, but collection times may vary and some streets may not be accessible if conditions deteriorate.
Households are asked to put bins out by 7 am on their normal collection day, unless advised otherwise. Even if roads appear clear, pavements and access points may still be unsafe for crews working on foot.
Why bins may not be collected
Snow and ice can make it unsafe for large bin lorries to travel down residential streets, particularly where surfaces are untreated or visibility is poor. Parked cars, which tend to increase during bad weather, can also prevent vehicles from safely entering or leaving a street.
The council has also warned that pavements and pathways may remain slippery even after roads improve, increasing the risk of injury to crews.
What to do if your bin is not emptied
If your bin is not collected due to the weather, residents are asked to leave it out. Collections will resume as soon as it is safe to do so, with weekend catch-up rounds used where possible.
If a general waste bin is missed for more than one scheduled collection, crews will take up to three black bags of side waste from beside the bin on the next visit.
Service recovery across the borough can take several days, even once conditions improve.
Managing waste during disruption
Residents are advised to double bag food waste, disposable nappies and other perishable items. Once cooled, fats and cooking oils should be poured into sealed containers rather than sinks.
Recyclable and non-perishable waste should be removed from green bins where possible to create more space. Rinsed recycling can be stored safely until collections restart, away from heat sources. Excess cardboard must be flattened and bundled if placed beside recycling bins, while other recycling should be contained within blue bins or bags.
Households with their own compost bins should use them for fruit and vegetable peelings, tea bags, paper and cardboard.
Recycling centres and updates
Household Waste Recycling Centres may be used for excess waste, but residents are advised to check opening hours before travelling, as sites can close during severe weather.
The council will share updates via its social media channels and website as conditions change.
Residents are encouraged to take extra care when putting bins out and to avoid placing them in locations where they could cause an obstruction or be blown over in worsening conditions.
