THE complaints about rubbish continue but the city council hopes a fleet of greener refuse vehicles will start to make improvements.

The new lorries form part of the council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and will also help reduce delays which have been due largely to breakdowns.

The vehicles have state of the art technology to help the crews, and the highest green credentials currently available; each lorry meets the requirements of Euro VI legislation which means they produce lower emissions than the older fleet vehicles.

Leader of Winchester City Council, Cllr Lucille Thompson, said: “We recognise that waste collection has been below par for some time and this is a matter that is very important to our residents. My administration is committed to improving waste collection services and the lorries are the first stage in a series of improvements.”

The Hampshire Chronicle continues to receive complaints about poor service. Wendy Hayward said: “I live in a block of retirement apartments. We have had no collection of ‘black bag’ rubbish for more than three weeks. Our bins are full and we have about a dozen overflow bags, presenting a health & safety risk. Our Manager has been in touch with the so-called service many times but with no success. The council needs to focus on this issue and get it sorted!”

Dr Simon Roffey, of Swan Lane, emailed: “Although the recycling bins were taken away today Swan Lane’s overflowing waste bins were not. They have now been here for over two weeks including the sweltering weekend. Rubbish is quite literally flowing over and blowing over the street. Rat infestation is high.

“This problem, as you are aware has been going on for a few months now. To date over the summer 5 bin collection days have been missed. So far I have asked Winchester’s MP, numerous councillors, many phone calls, I have spoken to the bin men in the street (including today when I was assured they would be collected) . I have also issued a formal complaint. I have received assurances from Mr Botham that Swan Lane will be monitored -haha!”

“I will be speaking to Chronicle who might be interested in this story of serial neglect and mismanagement. I have various photos etc which might be helpful. Meanwhile, I believe my £175 council tax is winging its way towards you, on time, as usual.”

I look forward to hearing from Winchester City Council and revived further bland and unconvincing apologies and promises