TALKS aimed at resolving an all-out strike by Birmingham refuse collectors have been described as productive amid attempts to resolve the dispute.

Members of Unite in Birmingham walked out last month in a bitter dispute over pay and jobs, leading to rubbish piling up on the city’s streets.

The two sides have been holding a series of meetings in recent days in a bid to break the deadlock.

Following the latest round of talks on Tuesday, a Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “The talks with Unite were productive, but there are still a number of issues to resolve. 

“We are looking forward to continuing with negotiations.”

A union spokesperson said: “Unite is continuing to engage in intensive talks with the council on behalf our members in the refuse service. 

“No resolution has yet been reached but Unite has put forward a range of fair and reasonable solutions to bring this dispute to an end.”