Birmingham City Council's new fortnightly bin collection service has sparked fury after bins piled up in Sutton Coldfield just days after its introduction. Councillor Richard Parkin (Reddicap, Cons) has launched a scathing attack on the 'shambolic' rollout, which has left flats with overflowing waste and bags spilling into the street.
Flats Included Despite Promises
The council is introducing fortnightly collections in north Birmingham, along with new food waste collections, amid an ongoing bin worker strike and suspended recycling services. In Churchill Road, Falcon Lodge, black bin bags piled up on wheelie bins outside flats, with split bags spilling nappies and animal waste. Parkin said he had been assured flats would be excluded from the scheme, but they were included anyway.
“I warned them this would happen and they have gone ahead anyway. It’s an absolute disgrace,” Parkin said. He organized a voluntary community litter pick on July 12, but volunteers had to bag up split household rubbish instead of their usual tidy-up.
Food Waste Collection Chaos
Adding to the confusion, food waste collection vans were spotted before any food waste caddies had been delivered to homes. The council had earlier confirmed a 'larger waste improvement pilot' starting June 30, with bins delivered from June 30 and collections from July 6. However, 50,000 residents received letters with the wrong collection dates, requiring costly re-mailings.
Councillor Harris Khaliq (Ward End, Better Birmingham), cabinet member for City Services and Digital, apologized for the issues but defended the pilot. “We understand one size does not fit all,” he said, acknowledging the need to adapt for different property types.
Council Under Fire
Parkin criticized the lack of consultation and the inclusion of flats, which generate more waste and lack storage for wheelie bins. He called on the council to clear the mess and stop fortnightly collections for flats. “Birmingham City Council sort it out!” he said.
The council said the pilot is part of government reforms under the Environment Act 2021, requiring weekly food waste collections. A spokesman said: “We know residents are frustrated and we are sorry for the inconvenience.” The pilot will be assessed before citywide rollout.
