HUNDREDS of bin workers are set to strike over bankrupt Birmingham City Council’s decision to cut safety roles, Unite announced today.

Some 150 face losing £8,000 a year under the decision to abolish the waste recycling and collection officer role, said the union.

About 350 members will work to rule and refuse overtime from January 2, and 12 days of full strike action is due to begin on January 6.

General secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite is not prepared to see its workers face a huge pay cut, nor will it allow the council to recklessly cut safety-critical roles which risks the safety of workers and the general public.”

Unite regional officer Zoe Mayou said the industrial action “will cause huge disruption to refuse services.”

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that this action is taking place, but we are continuing to work through the dispute resolution procedure.

“Ensuring the safety of our employees and residents is taken extremely seriously, and health and safety is everyone’s responsibility.”