The borough of Solihull is grappling with significant disruption after Storm Goretti blanketed the area in heavy snow overnight, forcing the suspension of key council services.
Waste Collections and Recycling Halted
Solihull Council has suspended all waste and recycling collections due to the adverse conditions caused by the storm. Residents whose refuse was missed on Friday, January 9, are advised to present it, along with any additional bagged rubbish, on their next scheduled collection day, Friday, January 16.
For missed recycling, households should leave their bins out, with collections set to resume the week commencing Monday, January 12. All pre-booked bulky waste collections for Friday are cancelled, and the council will contact affected residents to rearrange.
In a further move, the Bickenhill Household Waste and Recycling Centre has been closed. Customers with bookings are asked to reschedule.
Closures Hit Family Hubs and Libraries
The disruption extends to community support services, with three family hubs forced to close. Evergreen, Hatchford Brook, and Riverside Family Hubs are shut, affecting access to activities and support for youngsters, parents, and carers.
However, Elmwood's hub will remain open until 4pm. The council stressed that the family helpline on 0121 788 4327 is still operational for residents seeking support.
Library services are also impacted, with potential closures or delayed openings. The council advises customers to contact their local library before travelling.
Wider Impact and Council Response
The storm's severity was such that it even caused Birmingham Airport, located within the borough, to suspend operations temporarily. The Met Office had issued an amber warning for heavy snow from around 6.30pm on Thursday, January 8, which remained in place throughout the night.
Residents are also warned to expect potential disruption at the Solihull Connect Contact Centre, with longer wait times likely throughout Friday.
Ahead of the storm, the council had assured residents that its gritting teams were on 24-hour standby, a service that will continue until mid-March.
