A significant investment in gully cleaners and street sweepers is set to bolster Dumfries and Galloway Council’s response to flooding and road cleanliness across its 7,000 km network. LAPV reports.
Maintaining a road network that spans 7,000km—one of the largest in Scotland—is a monumental task that requires more than just hard work; it requires the right tools for the job. Recognizing this, Dumfries and Galloway Council has announced a major upgrade to its Roads Service operational fleet, marking a significant step forward in its maintenance and flood-prevention capabilities.
The council has invested in a new specialist fleet consisting of two advanced gully cleaning units and four state-of-the-art street sweepers. This strategic purchase is not just a routine equipment update; it is a direct response to the frontline expertise of the Roads Service teams themselves. During internal consultations, staff identified modern gully-cleaning and road-sweeping machinery as the top priority for improving daily operations and ensuring the region’s vast infrastructure remains safe and functional.
Engineering for resilience
The two new gully cleaning units have been specifically engineered to handle the unique challenges of the Dumfries and Galloway landscape. Built with corrosion-resistant tanks and powerful hydraulic-driven vacuum systems, these units are designed for maximum durability.
One of the standout features is the inclusion of a flexible boom. This allows operatives to reach and clear gullies safely from the carriageway, minimizing the need for complex traffic management and improving the safety of the crew. Furthermore, the units are equipped with high-capacity jetting systems. These are essential for clearing stubborn blockages, particularly in rural areas where clogged drainage systems are a primary contributor to surface-water flooding. By clearing these gullies more effectively and frequently, the council aims to significantly reduce the impact of heavy rainfall on local travel.
A step-change in street cleansing
Complementing the gully cleaners are four new street sweepers that represent a ‘step-change’ in cleansing performance. These vehicles are designed to work across both urban streets and high-use rural routes, offering a larger hopper capacity and improved suction power.
Beyond sheer performance, the sweepers bring significant environmental and financial benefits. They feature modern, low-wear components that reduce maintenance costs and downtime. Most notably, the units utilize water-saving technology that cuts consumption by up to 20%. When combined with reduced fuel usage, these sweepers support the council’s broader goals of operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Supporting the frontline
For the councillors leading the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, this investment is about empowering the workforce. Cllr Andy Ferguson, Chair of the Committee, emphasized that the decision was driven by the people on the ground.
‘Our Roads Service teams work tirelessly to maintain one of the largest road networks in Scotland, and they told us clearly that upgraded vehicles were one of the top things that would help them make a real difference,’ he said. ‘I’m delighted that we’ve been able to invest in this new equipment, which will strengthen our ability to keep routes clear, safe and well maintained all year round.’
Cllr Tony Berretti, Vice‑Chair of the committee, added that the arrival of the fleet is a ‘very positive step forward,’ ensuring that the community receives the high-quality service they expect while proactively tackling flood risks and improving general cleanliness across towns and villages.
Ready for action
The council didn’t waste any time in putting the new assets to work. Comprehensive training for Roads Service staff was carried out to ensure operatives can maximize the efficiency and safety features of the new technology and deployment of the new vehicles began the week commencing 23 March.
By investing in durable, modern equipment, Dumfries and Galloway Council is ensuring its Roads Service is better equipped than ever to face the elements and keep the region moving.
Photo: Street Cleansers with operatives and Cllr Andy Ferguson and Cllr Tony Berretti of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee © Dumfries and Galloway Council.
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