Long-running bin strikes partly suspended

The strikes are closer to resolution, a union official said

Long-running bin strikes have been partly suspended following four hours of talks on Wednesday.

Bin workers in South Tyneside have been involved in several rounds of industrial action since November over bullying allegations.

They were due to strike for two weeks from 1 May, but now will return to work on Tuesday.

A union official said it was a "little bit early" to say the dispute had ended, but they felt "a major step forward" had been taken, while South Tyneside Council said the move would provide a "much needed period of stability".

GMB Union organiser Mark Wilson said next week's strikes had been suspended to allow for further negotiations between workers and the local authority.

He said the council had agreed to discuss “certain service improvements” over the next “six to eight weeks".

Action plan

An action plan has been agreed, which includes investment in balancing the bin rounds and upgrading equipment.

South Tyneside Council's Stuart Wright said the plan gave all parties a "constructive way forward".

"We need everyone on board to bring about the improvements to the service and working conditions that the workforce has asked for," he said.

"I’d like to once again thank the people of South Tyneside for their patience in what has been a challenging period for the borough."

Mr Wilson added: "All parties appreciate the level of disruption caused to the people of South Tyneside over the last six months, but today we have agreed the foundations to bring an end to that in the longer term."

This week’s strike will continue with no bins being collected on Thursday and Friday.

GMB has a mandate for strike action until October this year.