RESIDENTS in Whitefield are being asked by the council to wheel their bins across several streets for collection and leave them near busy traffic – all in the name of health and safety.

Households in Sefton Street, Wilton Street and Edgerton Road have been told they must leave their bins for collection at various ‘pick up points’, including one on the junction with Higher Lane, to make access easier and safer for bin men.

It is understood Bury Council has taken the decision on health and safety grounds after a consultation period – but residents say they have not been aware of any discussion of the issue.

Residents were notified of the changes in May by letter and have said they felt they were not given a choice.

Confirmation of the changes were then served last week.

However, some residents prefer the new arrangement, with one couple reporting that it has made their lives easier.

But it seems opinion is divided about the new system.

Aidan Poole, aged 62, lives in Edgerton Road, he said: “This is a potential nightmare.

“I respect the need to ensure the health and safety of the workers, and if there is an issue with access down those streets something needs to be done, but I’m not sure this is the right thing to do.

“You can’t just have an idea and run with it.”

He said because of where he lives in Edgerton Street, he and his neighbours will have to take their bins to a pick up point at the end of Wilton Street where it meets Higher Lane, on a bend of a main road.

Mr Poole added: “I think it is a recipe for disaster.

“That is a very dangerous corner anyway, but can you imagine what it would be like if there are 30 bins or so waiting to be emptied?”

With Higher Lane Primary School and Mulberry Bush Nursery, in Sefton Street, in the area, many young children walk on the pavements during term time.

“I just think this hasn’t been thought through properly,” Mr Poole said.

Councillor Bob Caserta is planning to speak with disgruntled residents, but also said some people are pleased with the changes.

“I spoke to one young couple who live in Edgerton Road and they were over the moon, they said they were pleased the bins are now out of the way.”

Cllr Caserta is hoping to speak with council staff to discuss minimising any disruption to residents.

Bury Council has been approached for comment.