The perils of operating a refuse lorry

This footage illustrates the concerns we have over the refuse and recycling fleet operating in ice and snow. Once a vehicle of this size starts to slide, there is very little that can be done to avoid collisions with vehicles, pedestrians or buildings. Given that the vehicles are constantly starting and stopping, ice and snow on the roads can also stop vehicles from moving again if they are on a slope.

As well as the direct risk to both the public and the refuse crews, many areas that may appear to be passable are accessed along routes with hills or larger quantities of snow and ice that make it impossible for the vehicles to get through to certain areas. Please have patience if the weather is causing disruption to the services in your area and we will look to resume services at the earliest opportunity.