Central Beds Council have advised us that unfortunately, garden waste collections remain suspended due to the ongoing national shortage of HGV drivers. They anticipate the suspension will continue throughout September, unless driver availability changes.
They are exploring all possibilities even a less frequent service as an interim measure and hope to have an update late September.
Driver shortages are affecting many businesses that rely on HGV drivers. Whilst they had to suspend our garden waste collections temporarily, they are continuing to prioritise drivers for collection of black bins, food waste and recycling from over 120,000 households every week.
They are doing everything they can to recruit drivers and upskill existing staff where possible. Unfortunately, resolving the shortage of drivers is not a quick fix. Their ability to source qualified drivers, who are seeking employment, and agency staff has been dramatically reduced. Their contractor is offering increased hourly rates and fast-tracking new drivers through the training programme. However, a national backlog of driving tests and processing of driving licenses is impacting the duration of this process significantly.
If you hold an up to date LGV2 Licence and want to join a committed team, please apply here: https://bit.ly/3swz3H3. Waste vehicle drivers generally work more regular daytime hours and fewer weekends than other sectors. Our contractor FCC also offer an employee benefits scheme, overtime and job security.