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Christmas Rubbish Piles Up Across Birmingham as Bin Strike Drags On

Union escalation points to a dispute that could outlast May's local elections.

Overview

  • Unite says a third 'megapicket' will take place next month and warns the action may continue beyond the May 2026 vote.
  • Agency staff employed by Job & Talent on the refuse contract will join council workers on picket lines, widening participation.
  • Residents in areas such as Small Heath and Bordesley Green report overflowing bins, fly-tipping, rats and respiratory worries after the festive period.
  • The dispute began over plans to remove Waste Recycling and Collection Officer roles and escalated to an indefinite all-out strike in March.
  • Birmingham City Council says contingency collections are working, citing roughly 1,330 tonnes of kerbside waste gathered daily and more than 100,000 tonnes in six months.