Council Urges Drivers to Exercise Caution Around Bin Collection Crews

Chichester District Council has reported a rise in near-miss incidents involving bin collection crews on local roads. The council indicated an uptick in such reports during 2024 and is advising motorists to exercise caution when navigating around these collection teams. Mark Chilton, who serves as the council’s cabinet member for finance, corporate services and Chichester contract services, stated: “These are incidents where something more serious, such as harm, injury or worse, could have happened but was fortunately avoided.” Chilton detailed instances where drivers mounted pavements to bypass crews, and in one particular case, a vehicle proceeded through a designated coned-off zone. The councillor commented: “If it hadn’t been for the quick actions and vigilance of our operatives on these occasions, then these near misses could have been extremely serious.” To enhance their visibility to other drivers, crews are already equipped with full high-visibility clothing, and collection vehicles feature CCTV cameras to aid in the reporting of incidents. Chilton remarked: “Our collection crews are our very own waste warriors.”