BIN workers are set to strike from bank holiday Monday.

The GMB union has announced that a second pay offer has been rejected by members.

As a result, a refuse and recycling strike in the Wealden District Council area will begin on Monday.

The walk-out is expected to last for at least two weeks.

The industrial action, which affects workers employed by Biffa, was originally due to start on Monday, April 25, but was suspended while the union consulted their members on an improved offer from the company.

The union has confirmed that the offer was rejected by a margin of 93.1 per cent to 6.9 per cent, with a turnout of 96.6 per cent.

Gary Palmer, GMB regional organiser, said: “It's clear that Biffa and our members value their contribution to the refuse and cleansing contract very differently in the Wealden district area.

“The letter sent by the employer to staff really sealed the decision to go out on strike, as members were angered not just by what they consider a poor offer but by the lack of engagement and negotiation with their chosen representatives from the GMB Union. 

“It was nothing more than a fait accompli. The walk out starts on bank holiday Monday for two weeks - but could be subject to further strike notice if the stand-off continues.

“We will of course meet with management to talk at any time, but let's hope that if we do, it's meaningful this time.”