WINCHESTER is facing the threat of a strike on the troubled bin collection service

The GMB union today said it is consulting its members about action over the introduction of CCTV in cabs of dustcarts.

The collection service has been blighted in recent months by vehicle breakdowns, staff shortages and a chronic problem of missed collections across the district.

Nicola Nixon, GMB regional organiser, said: "GMB already have concerns regarding the health and safety of its members on the site, and feel that this is a step too far.

"Biffa have refused to halt the rollout of CCTV in cabs despite the GMB's objections and the GMB feel that this is constant surveillance of its members and cannot be sure the data taken is held responsibly.

"Biffa are now refusing to talk to the GMB locally and therefore we have no option other than to take direct action to protect our members."

Winchester City Council has been asked for comment.

Biffa declined to comment.

In the last few weeks new vehicles have been introduced which the council hopes will improve reliability.

More follows.