Bin crews and parking officers targeted in Oldham

Parking wardens and bin workers in Oldham have been targeted while out doing their jobs. Oldham council has slammed the incidents as ‘unacceptable’.

Last week, a brick was thrown through the window of a bin wagon in Waterhead while were out collecting waste. Photos posted by the council showed shattered glass on driver’s seat, the floor and the dashboard.
It is understood there has been at least one incident in which a parking enforcement officer was abused, on September 4, while working in Glodwick.

In a post on September 4, Oldham council said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe at work. This week, a bin wagon had its driver-side window smashed by a resident while crews were carrying out collections, and a parking enforcement officer was subjected to abuse while dealing with unsafe and illegal parking.

“Our staff are working hard every day to deliver essential services for communities across the borough. These unacceptable actions not only put people at risk but also delay services for other residents.

“Please treat our teams with respect as they work to keep our neighbourhoods clean, safe and well managed.”

The LDRS recently highlighted parking issues in the area around Waterloo Street, where care are routinely parked on double yellow lines.

Oldham council has taken further enforcement in the area, with more double yellow lines painted along alleys. On September 1, the town hall said 273 fines had been given out so far this year.

In an update, a council spokesperson said: “Double yellow lines were introduced in the rear alleys off Waterloo Street under a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) following persistent and long-standing complaints from residents.

“Residents reported being regularly blocked in by parked vehicles, causing them to miss medical appointments and be late for work and school.

“Illegally parked vehicles can also obstruct access for emergency services and are in breach of the Highway Code.

“These temporary restrictions have been put in place to address these safety and access concerns while a permanent solution is considered. A full consultation will begin shortly.
“Enforcement officers are carrying out their duties to help keep our highways safe and accessible. Any form of verbal or physical abuse towards our staff is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”