Trash could accumulate in a section of east London during the Christmas season as council employees, including waste management and groundskeeping personnel, have chosen to initiate a series of strikes over the holiday period.

A recent vote revealed that 97% of GMB Union members favored the strike action amid a dispute regarding wages with their employer, FCC Environment, which handles these services for Waltham Forest Council.

The planned strikes are set to occur from December 10-12, 17-19, and 22-23, as well as on January 2 and from January 5-9.

The union expressed that its members felt compelled to act, while the council stated its hopes for both parties to reach an agreement.

Mary Goodson, the regional organizer for GMB, stated, “Our members have yet to receive a satisfactory pay increase, leaving them with no option but to resort to strike action.”

Clyde Loakes, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and air quality, voiced disappointment over the ongoing lack of resolution in the protracted pay discussions.

“The negotiations are strictly between FCC Environment and its employees, and fall outside the council’s oversight.

“However, we are eager to see both parties quickly resolve the issue to ensure any pay raises can be implemented before Christmas.”

FCC Environment has been contacted for a response.