A NINE-month wait for a replacement green bin is over for a Halesowen householder after a call from the News.

Requests for a new bin by Jon Holton and Halesowen North councillor Karen Shakespeare to Dudley Council went unheeded for several months.

But an apologetic council delivered a new bin the day after being contacted by the News.

The bin was split last April while being emptied by council refuge workers, allowing rotting compost to seep out.

Mr Holton, of Valley Road, said it was the lack of communication which had annoyed him the most. Even Cllr Shakespeare was unable to get a response despite.

Waste operations manager Jim, Deakin, said an email to Mr Holton: “Following your initial inquiry we did visit your property to inspect your green wheeled bin and we felt that the damage at that time did not warrant the bin being replaced.

“However, as you correctly point in your email we should have given you the courtesy of a follow-up communication. This did not happen and I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“We always try and ensure we meet residents’ requirements, unfortunately in this case we did not meet your, or our own expectations. “We have, however, taken steps to make sure this will not happen again.

“As you are aware we visited your property yesterday and we have reconsidered our original decision and have now exchanged your damaged bin for a new one.

“Once again please accept my apologies for the poor communication relating to this matter and I can assure you we will endeavour to provide satisfactory service again in the future.”