STRIKE action by refuse workers could continue for a further three weeks, a council has admitted.

Industrial action by the GMB union began on April 25 amid an ongoing dispute with Wealden District Council and Biffa over pay.

Wealden council confirmed it had been notified by Biffa that the union intends to extend strike action up until June 25.

A spokesman for Biffa said: “We’re disappointed that the GMB has rejected our improved offer.

“We enhanced the offer with a proposal for a two-year deal which included significantly above inflation increases - 17 per cent for this year and a minimum of seven per cent next year, a cash lump sum, and pay parity with the other two councils in the East Sussex contract.

“The offer was made following a constructive day of negotiations facilitated by ACAS (The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) and unfortunately members have chosen to continue with strike action.

“We are working hard to minimise any disruption to service.”

The council said Biffa has “made several improved offers to end this strike” and accused the GMB union of making “little movement on pay demands.”

A spokesman for Sussex GMB said: “We have now extended our strike action until June 25.

“If Biffa wants to come back to the negotiating table, we are here waiting for them to settle the dispute.”

While residents are free to use County Council tips during the strike, the council is urging people to "be kind" following reports of site workers being verbally abused.

A spokesman said: "We ask residents to appreciate these staff are not employed by Biffa and are not involved in the strike in any way. 

"They are simply working as hard as possible to ensure residents have a facility to dispose of their waste during this strike and beyond."

Waste collection points for affected residents to take their rubbish during the strike have been set up. 

They are as follows:

  • Today: Hailsham between 8am and 2pm in the car park at Vicarage Lane (next to the leisure centre)
  • Tomorrow: Pevensey between 8am and 2pm in the Cattle Market Car Park off the High Street (next to the castle)