Decision details

Procurement of vehicles to replace end of life units in 2025/26, using electric alternatives where available, in line with the Council’s Climate Emergency. This project will ensure that the Council’s fleet continues to be managed effectively and efficiently using vehicles and plant built to the latest standards and regulations regarding safety and emissions, operating with greater climate efficiency and meeting the changing requirements of the evolving services. These replacement vehicles and plant are for key frontline services such as the collection of waste and recycling, and maintenance of parks and open spaces. There are several specialist vehicles and plant along with some standard replacements. The vehicles will all be fitted with the latest specification of engines leading to reduced emissions and better fuel efficiency. Stop/Start technology and electric vehicles will also be considered for the non-specialist vehicles reducing our carbon footprint. The replacement of the vehicles allows each team to step back and assess what are the best vehicles to achieve their required outcomes through changing service demands and not just replace on a 'like for like' basis. However, final fleet purchasing decisions are delegated to the Director of Place Management in line with the Councils wider policy positions.

To fully approve capital budget of £6.790m
Provisional capital allocation of £6.654m for the Asset & Vehicle Replacement Programme and £0.136m for Green Vehicle Replacement.

Extending the life of the vehicles is an ongoing consideration and vehicles have already been moved to our future year replacement programme wherever possible.
Extending the life further on the remaining vehicles will lead to increased down time and additional maintenance costs. Contract hire has not been chosen as this is generally less flexible on vehicle specification and more expensive than the capital recharge costs.