A proposed deal aimed at ending the ongoing bin strike in Birmingham has been diluted, according to Unite, the union representing refuse workers.
The strike, which began on 11 March, has now entered its third month amid a dispute over the downgrading of certain roles, which Unite says could cost affected workers up to £8,000 annually.
Unite is calling for fresh negotiations with Birmingham City Council following changes to a preliminary agreement discussed during talks with conciliation service Acas. The union claims the initial outline proposal was later revised by government-appointed commissioners and the city’s council leader, weakening its terms.
The Labour-led council has stated that it has made an updated offer, which it describes as fair and reasonable, and is encouraging the union to share the details with its members. Talks between the council and Unite have been ongoing through Acas since early May after earlier negotiations ended without resolution.
Unite has criticised the council for allegedly missing key deadlines and for inconsistencies between public statements and internal discussions. The union contends that the revisions to the original proposal were introduced by individuals who were not present in the negotiation room.
The city council has expressed hope that discussions will resume next week and reiterated its commitment to reaching a negotiated settlement to end the dispute.
Unite confirmed that union representatives would review the offer over the weekend and provide a formal response ahead of the next scheduled Acas meeting. The union is also demanding that key decision-makers be directly involved in any future negotiations.
Meanwhile, a court injunction preventing striking workers from obstructing bin lorries at city depots remains in place indefinitely. Unite has indicated plans to challenge the order but has agreed to comply with legal restrictions on picketing.
When the injunction was first issued on 23 May, the council reported that depot disruptions had led to a waste backlog of up to 12,800 tonnes across Birmingham.
Police, who had been stationed at picket lines to facilitate the movement of refuse vehicles and prevent further waste accumulation, have since reduced their presence. West Midlands Police stated that the situation no longer warranted enforcement under Section 14 of the Public Order Act.
