The union for refuse collectors is calling for “last ditch” talks with a council chief executive to avoid bin strikes.

Workers in Thanet will start industrial action on September 11, joining those in Canterbury, but are keen to arrange talks with Thanet council to “avoid the inevitable disruption”.

The GMB union has asked the arbitration service ACAS to arrange the discussion after the council chief executive Colin Carmichael said he will welcome discussion with the union.

The union insists the strike is “entirely avoidable” if the council enters meaningful negotiations.

Frank Macklin, GMB regional organiser, said: “Our members do not want to go on strike.

“If Mr Carmichael is keen to arrange last-ditch talks to avoid the inevitable disruption, as he says, we’ll make ourselves available for talks this weekend or next week.”

On Wednesday, Mr Macklin argued the workers are doing a “dangerous and dirty job, who just want to be paid what their local equivalents get elsewhere”.

The wage they are calling for is £15 an hour for drivers and £12 for loaders.

Mr Macklin continued: “It takes two to tango though and we need the council not only to attend but also to enter into meaningful negotiations.

“If that happens, we are hopeful that a deal can be thrashed out that will avert the action and avoid any unnecessary disruption to local businesses and residents.”

In May, Thanet workers voted for strike action, but it was called off “for now” while talks continued.

Nearby in Canterbury, action from bin workers has been extended until October 1.