A union boss wants an investigation into sexual harassment and racism at a bin depot to conclude as quickly as possible because it is "causing disruption among the workforce".

GMB Sussex branch secretary Mark Turner said his members at the Hollingdean depot, in Upper Hollingdean Road, Brighton, are now “looking at each other wondering who’s said what”.

Brighton and Hove City Council said yesterday that it was appointing a barrister to head an independent investigation into working culture at the Cityclean depot after whistle-blowers reported sexual harassment, racism, discrimination based on disability, bullying and intimidation.

While Mr Turner said he welcomed the investigation, he said it needs to be finished quickly.

“People have made these allegations and they need answers as soon as possible. But I’ve been told that it could last for months,” he said.

The Argus: The Hollingdean depot is being investigatedThe Hollingdean depot is being investigated (Image: The Argus)

“People are shocked and they are now looking at each other wondering who’s said what.”

Mr Turner said he has not been contacted by GMB members to report any allegations since the investigation was announced on Tuesday.

Meanwhile the Unison union, which also has members at the Hollingdean depot, said it welcomed the investigation.

A spokesman for Unison said: “The branch looks forward to supporting and co-operating fully with this independent investigation.

“It is essential that the local authority, its workforce and recognised unions work together to ensure that every employee can thrive in a workplace free from bullying, harassment, intimidation or victimisation.

“Along with the council's other recognised unions, Unison has been consulted on a new comprehensive bullying and harassment policy. We welcome this and have been pleased to contribute to it.

READ MORE: Brighton council launches racism, discrimination inquiry at bin depot

City council leader Bella Sankey said: “A significant number of council workers have come forward to disclose allegations of sexual harassment, racism, discrimination based on disability, bullying and intimidation taking place at the Hollingdean depot.

“We take such complaints extremely seriously and that’s why we’ve asked Aileen McColgan, Kings Counsel, to conduct an independent investigation into these allegations.

"Every member of our valued staff team should be able to work in a safe, comfortable and non-discriminatory environment. Unacceptable behaviour in the workplace will not be tolerated.

“If anyone has information relevant to this inquiry then I’d like to ask them to speak with our investigator. Current and former Cityclean employees or those with concerns can email Aileen McColgan directly on amc@11kbw.com.

“Following the inquiry the council is committed to taking necessary action to address the concerns."