The workers downed tools three weeks ago, leaving the town in dire straits.

Municipal spokesperson, Prudence Magutle, said the municipality is still negotiating with the workers.

The solid waste workers want the municipality to stop outsourcing services and upgrade their post grading from Level 4 to Level 6.

On Monday, the workers resumed protest action at the civic centre. The police responded to the scene, where shots were fired at protesters and 11 people were arrested for public violence.

The 11 workers appeared before the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

DA ward councillors embarked on a massive clean-up operation on Wednesday to rid the town of overflowing rubbish.