A HANDFUL of glass recycling collections across Southampton have been cancelled – and more cancellations are likely.

The city council is struggling to find half term cover for staff who are on leave, as well as those off sick.

Today (October 25), the services in parts of the Itchen and Sholing ward were omitted.

A spokesperson for the council, which is warning of further cancellations, said: "Unfortunately we've had to cancel glass recycling collections in some parts of the Itchen and Sholing ward areas today due to a shortage of drivers.

 

A map of the areas affected by the glass collection staff shortages

A map of the areas affected by the glass collection staff shortages

 

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused. It's likely other areas of the city will be affected over the week as we struggle to cover half term staff leave and any periods of sickness.

"We're still in the process of upskilling existing staff members and are actively looking to recruit new drivers to relieve pressure."

The council is looking into making catch up collections on Saturday and will put out further notifications if this is possible.

It is asking residents to bring grey recycling crates back in for the time being.