Alain Maron & Barbara Trachte
Return of nightly refuse collections sparks controversy
The Brussels refuse collection agency Net
Brussel and Brussels cleanliness minister Maron (Francophone green) are preparing
the return of nightly refuse collections.
Bin lorries will once again be out and about on the streets of the
Belgian and Flemish capital between the hours of 8PM and 2AM from 15 May
onwards, but not all local mayors are enamoured of this decision.
It was in 2017 that nightly refuse
collections were abandoned in Brussels. Six
years later they are back!
Minister Maron argues that the nightly
collections will mean that bin bags are rapidly collected and don’t languish on
pavements for many hours. That should enhance cleanliness in local
neighbourhoods. It’s all part of the
Clean.brussels Plan.
It’s also argued that the nightly
collections will ease congestion and ensure fewer bin lorries end up creating
traffic jams in the mornings. The use of
modern lorries should also mean less noise.
Brussels mayors are set to discuss the plan
next week. Emir Kir, Mayor of Sint-Joost,
feels it will be impossible to guarantee peace and quiet for residents: “This
certainly doesn’t form part of the Quiet.brussels Plan” he noted.
Unions are unhappy too and haven’t ruled
out strike action. They are prepared to
accept night shifts but want them shortened.
