Snow and ice bring bin and waste collection disruption to Tavistock and Dartmoor villages

Waste and recycling collections have been disrupted across parts of West Devon due to snow and icy conditions over the past two days.

Collection crews have been unable to safely access some roads and properties during the last 48 hours, meaning some bins have not been emptied as planned.

READ NEXT: Iconic Tavistock business announces closure after 30-year association with town

The areas most affected include Tavistock, Hatherleigh, Chagford, Buckland Monachorum and Yelverton.

A spokesperson for West Devon Borough Council said that crew welfare had to come first while icy conditions remain.

“Due to the ice and snow, our crews have been unable to safely access some areas in the last 48 hours to carry out our waste and recycling collections” they said.

Residents are being asked to leave their bins out, where it is safe to do so, while crews work with their waste contractor to catch up on missed collections.

The spokesperson added: “We are working closely with our waste contractor to ensure that we return to collect waste and recycling as soon as we safely can. All waste will be back collected as soon as the weather permits.”

One resident praised the council’s efforts during this period, and said: “The 3 operatives that came to Buckland yesterday were working extremely hard in the freezing conditions! They were very thankful for a cup of tea and coffee to warm them up too!”

Further disruption comes as freezing temperatures, ice and lying snow have affected travel and schools across Dartmoor and surrounding areas.

The Moorlander previously reported on delayed school opening times, and advice for motorists who need to head out during the colder weather.

Several schools have postponed their usual start times on Tuesday, January 6 because of frost and ice making travel hazardous for staff, pupils and buses. 

Devon County Council confirmed that Tavistock Primary and Nursery School will open at 10.30am due to icy conditions. 

Other schools near Dartmoor are also affected, with delayed starts to help ensure children and staff can arrive safely. 

The bad weather comes as local organisations warn of snow and ice continuing to raise safety concerns. 

Dartmoor National Park Authority has advised people to take extra care on roads and only travel if necessary, noting that icy patches could make driving dangerous.

Residents are being reminded to wrap up warm and stay safe during the cold weather.