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Approval is sought to replace up to seven
refuse collection vehicles and three road sweepers. The decision to
replace is in line with the legacy Carlisle City Council’s
fleet replacement programme and Fleet Strategy

Reasons for the decision

Seven refuse collection vehicles and three
road sweepers are rapidly approaching the end of their scheduled
service life and need replacement.   The vehicles are fully engaged in front-line
service delivering some of the most high-profile and high-risk
services for Cumberland residents. 
Replacing these vehicles will ensure a reliable and continued
provision of statutory waste collection and street cleaning
services, reducing expenditure on older vehicles and associated
down-time, which can impact instantly on service performance,
leading to complaints from residents, damage to reputation, and
avoidable costs for remedial action.   Newer vehicles also allow for the
introduction of improved safety measures and more efficient modern
engines contribute to improved air quality, reduced carbon
emissions in support of the Council’s carbon reduction
targets.   Investing in new
vehicles is also viewed positively by the Council’s
hard-working staff delivering priority services for the people of
Cumberland.

Alternative options considered

Options were considered including electric
vehicles.  However, electric refuse
collection vehicles and road sweepers are significantly more
expensive than conventional vehicles, and do not provide sufficient
confidence that they can meet operational demands across rural
areas.  This industry is of course
developing, and whilst it is not an option at this time, this is
something that will be considered for future vehicle
purchases.   Fleet Services is
considering other initiatives to reduce vehicle related carbon
emissions with modern vehicles for example capable of operating on
renewable diesel which will help deliver carbon reductions and
improved air-quality compared to conventional diesel.   A trial of renewable diesel is currently
underway.
 
Consideration has also been given to
relocating any underutilised or spare vehicle resources from across
Cumberland, however, no such resources are available at this
time.