BIN MISERY

Desperate city chiefs declare a 'major incident' as rubbish builds up in refuse strike-hit Brum

- ADAM ASPINALL

BRITAIN'S second city has declared a major incident due to its catastrophic bin strike.

Birmingham City Council claimed picket lines at depots are preventing vehicles going to collect waste once a week, meaning 17,000 tons of rubbish remains strewn on streets.

Almost 400 council bin workers began indefinite strike action on March 11 as part of a continuing row over jobs and pay.

Some residents claim the city is being overrun by giant rodents, with some "rats becoming the size of cats".

Pest control experts warn build-up of refuse poses a huge health danger.

Declaring a major incident allows the council to increase street cleansing and fly-tipping removal, with an extra 35 vehicles and crews.

It also allows it to seek support from other authorities and the government.