Bin men face losing their jobs after Wiltshire Council agreed plans today to streamline their waste collection services.

The changes, being implemented in two phases, will begin in April with four vehicles and 12 staff being reduced from the council’s roster. In September, some residents will see a change of day when their waste is collected with between 15 and 21 further staff being cut.

This will see the council stop using agency staff. In total, up to 12 council workers could lose their jobs in the reshuffle, which was agreed after the service was analysed.

In 2014/15, the decision will save £400,000 with expected savings of £700,000 year-on-year.

Wiltshire Councillor Toby Sturgis, cabinet member responsible for waste and recycling, said: “We are now recycling almost half the waste produced by households in Wiltshire and it is important we continue to work with residents to ensure this recycling rate continues to rise.

“Kerbside recycling is an important part of this, and these changes will save money, while continuing to provide the same comprehensive service for our residents.”

In September, the council will also implement ‘fixed compressed hours’ for drivers and loaders.

This will mean these staff will continue to work 37 hours per week but they would work four days per week instead of five. This would result in a longer working day.

Council drivers and loaders would continue to work Monday to Friday but would take one day off during the week in addition to Saturday and Sunday.