Driver shortages and technical problems further hit North Somerset waste collections

Paul JonesAugust 13, 20250 Comment0

HGV driver shortages and a depot breakdown are behind a raft of missed recycling and garden waste collections in North Somerset.

Hundreds of households have faced full containers this week, despite collections being due, as crews battle to complete rounds amid the shortages – and technical difficulties.

Now, people are being urged to leave their waste out as workers try to make up the collections.

A North Somerset Council spokesperson said on Tuesday evening (August 12): “Due to ongoing HGV driver shortages, hot weather, and a machinery breakdown at the depot, we haven’t been able to complete all recycling collections today.

“Crews will try to catch up tomorrow. If your collection was due today, please leave your containers out. Some collections may still be missed, and we apologise for the inconvenience. Thank you for your patience.”

The council had warned collections were likely to be missed in dozens of district streets, but many residents have told your Leveller they have been left with waste still on the kerb – despite not being among those warned.

One said: “The crews collected our cardboard and paper box but nothing else. Our address is not on the list. Hopefully tomorrow.”

“They didn’t collect mine last week and red bag is full. Guess recycling is going in the black bin this week,” another said.

Others said their waste had not been collected, though due to be picked up on Friday last week, while others said theirs had been missed, despite not featuring on warning lists by NSC – and published by your Leveller.

Meanwhile, households are being urged to show understanding to crews, who are battling soaring temperatures amid the staff shortage as the try to make up the shortfall in collections.