BIN lorries in Sandwell are to be mounted with Number Plate Recognition cameras as part of a council-led crackdown on 'nuisance' vehicles.

The authority decided to take action following complaints from residents about 'illegal' vehicles being left blocking pavements and streets.

Camera cars will start patrolling Sandwell’s streets to identify illegal vehicles and cameras will also be mounted on council vehicles, including bin lorries.

Data will be sent to enforcement agents and if vehicles are found to be on the public highway without tax, MOT or insurance, they could be towed and crushed.

The move has led to angry backlash from striking bin men and the GMB Union.

The union called them "snooper cameras" and said more than 100 striking bin men are furious at the proposal which they say could lead to them being confronted by angry members of the public.

It said they were "equal parts baffled and angered by the idea, with one worker branding it ‘nonsense’"

Gillian Ogilvie, GMB Senior Organiser said: "Our members haven't been consulted on this move and are extremely angry.

"Let's be clear here, it puts them at risk from angry members of the public who will know where and when they'll be around to vent their frustrations.

"The council doesn't even have the jurisdiction for MOT or tax avoidance, so why are they getting involved?

"They're quick enough to dodge responsibility when it comes to the same staff in the Serco strike, so why the sudden change of policy to pick up the slack from the DVLA?"

Sandwell Council said vehicles without a valid MOT could be dangerous or unroadworthy but may also be omitting harmful gases into the atmosphere.

In addition, should these vehicles be involved in an accident this may invalidate any insurance, making these vehicles a real nuisance on our roads and often may even be involved in other criminal activity.

A Sandwell Council spokesperson said: “The devices require no input from drivers or crew and any data would be securely transmitted to our licensed enforcement agents for action.

"We will of course consult with any affected staff and discuss any concerns colleagues may have in advance of the installation.”