RESIDENTS across the Dudley borough are being urged not to light bonfires in their gardens after a surge in complaints.

Dudley Council has seen an increase in the number of complaints over garden bonfires since it suspended green waste collections to prioritise general waste and recycling collections.

Tips have also closed.

Although bonfires are not banned in the borough, residents are being asked not to burn waste for the duration of the coronavirus outbreak.

Dudley residents can order compost bins at a reduced rate via external companies. Details can be found here.

Burning waste causes smoke and unpleasant smells, which cause air pollution and could have a serious impact on the health of neighbours, especially if they have conditions which put them at a greater risk.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and social care, said: "Now more than ever, we need to be considerate of our neighbours.

"With many of us confined to our homes, it is really important we access fresh air as much as possible whether through an open window or enjoying our gardens.

"Garden fires can cause a real nuisance and could potentially impact on the wellbeing of someone who may have a health complication that you’re unaware of.

"At a time when our colleagues in the NHS are facing unprecedented pressures, we need to avoid behaviour and activity that could add to their workload.

"Please think of others. We appeal to all residents to compost where they can or bag and store garden waste until our normal garden waste collections resume.

"We thank everyone for bearing with us as we navigate through these difficult times."