Residents and workers thanked for efforts during ‘pandemic heatwave’

Recycling and waste collectors who worked throughout the recent heatwave to ensure that household waste could still be picked up despite many of their colleagues having to self-isolate after potential exposure to coronavirus have been thanked for their efforts.

The Deputy Leader, Cllr Hywel Williams has also thanked householders for their patience and co-operation after collections in some areas had to be rearranged as a result of the temporary shortfall in staff.

Councillor Williams said: “The last 10 days or so have not been easy for refuse and recycling collectors due to the extreme heat and the fact that many of their colleagues have been required to self-isolate after potential exposure to a positive coronavirus contact.

“On an average day, each refuse and recycling worker will walk between seven and ten miles a day and will carry up to four tonnes of waste. Doing this while short-staffed during a heatwave has been a massive challenge, but they have come through for the community once again.

“At a time when news headlines have featured businesses not opening due to it being too hot for their employees, the Kier crews have been out all day every day, and have returned as quickly as possible to clear any streets that could not be completed on the scheduled day.

“As well as thanking them for their efforts, I also want to acknowledge all residents for the support that they have demonstrated towards our recycling and waste crews during extremely difficult circumstances.

“Every effort has been made to complete collections, and with temperatures falling and staffing levels getting back to normal, I hope that the temporary inconvenience some householders may have experienced has now been resolved.”