Bedfordians are being warned that bin collections may take place earlier than usual as crews continue working in extreme heat.
Bedford Borough Council says waste, recycling and food waste collections are currently starting earlier in the day to help protect frontline staff as temperatures are forecast to climb well into the 30s again today.
The move follows temperatures reaching 35°C in parts of south-east England yesterday, with forecasters warning today could be even hotter.
Earlier collections
The council said earlier start times allow crews to complete as much work as possible before the hottest part of the day.
Waste collection staff are required to lift heavy bins and work outdoors for long periods while wearing protective equipment, which increases the risk of heat-related illness in extreme temperatures.
The council said every effort is being made to complete all scheduled rounds each day, but warned that issues such as vehicle breakdowns or staff shortages could lead to delays.
Residents affected by missed collections are being asked to leave bins out overnight so crews can return the following day.
Advice
The council is asking residents to help crews by:
- Putting bins out the night before collection
- Tightly tying food waste bags and securely closing lids
- Parking considerately to allow refuse vehicles access
The authority also reminded residents that weekly food waste collections help reduce smells and hygiene issues during hot weather by preventing waste from sitting outside for extended periods.
Key workers
Mayor Tom Wootton (Conservative) thanked council staff working outdoors during the heatwave.
“Heatwave conditions make what is already a physically tough job even more demanding for our waste, food and recycling crews,” he said.
“We know how important reliable collections are for residents, and bringing start times forward is one of the ways we can keep services going while protecting staff welfare.
“We would like to thank our collection crews for the hard work they do to keep our Borough clean and tidy, and we would also like to thank residents for their patience, understanding and support during this period of extreme heat.
“All our key workers, cleansing, highways, grounds teams and many others, do vital work to keep Bedford Borough safe, clean and well-maintained, and they all deserve our thanks and appreciation.”
