RESIDENTS were ‘shocked’ when they woke up to find their bins hadn’t been collected and would have to pay £31 for replacements if they hoped to see them emptied.

Tankersley locals received the news last week after their green bins were left full and uncollected, with a note tagged on saying they will no longer be emptied and must be replaced.

“I moved to this house about 12 years ago,” said Andrew Gascoigne, who lives on Stainborough View and is one of those affected.

“There’s been a split on the front of my green bin since I moved in, but it’s never been rejected until now.

“In a lot of cases it seems the damage isn’t the fault of the residents - we’re seeing lots of these same problems but only on the green bins.”

Similar situations have been reported in Darton, Birdwell and Hoyland, with some residents now claiming they’re going to refuse to pay for the replacement.

Coun James Higginbottom, cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways, said: “Our number one priority is to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff and residents during bin collections.

“Bins that have been in use for many years and left out in all weathers are naturally susceptible to wear and tear.

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“Where bins are badly damaged and there is a risk to public safety, residents will need to replace their bins at a standard delivery charge of £31.

“Where bins are under five years old and still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, we will waive the replacement charge.”