Following approval from cabinet members, the local authority has announced that 20 large assets in its fleet will undergo an ‘upcycling’ process, converting them from diesel to electric vehicles.

The move is designed to increase the lifespan of vehicles, whilst supporting the council’s 2030 net zero target by reducing emissions from its fleet.

In addition to the upcycling process, which is due to begin this year, the council has confirmed its plans to procure seven new small electric vehicles, with a view to create a ‘fully ultra-low emission’ and operational fleet by 2029.

Cllr Wendy Maples, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Wellbeing, said: ‘Vehicles that are unsuitable for the change to electric will be replaced with state-of-the-art electric models featuring modern safety enhancements.

‘Both upcycled and new vehicles will include features that improve working conditions for operators, as well as being emission-free at the tailpipe, so helping to improve air quality for all.’

According to Cllr Maples, second-hand ‘cover’ vehicles will be used to support the primary phase of upcycling, enabling a ‘phased transition that ensures no disruption to current waste and recycling services’.

‘Waste and recycling services touch every home, so these vehicles will be part of everyone's climate solution. Cleaner air, quieter streets, and greater community wellbeing is great news for our waste teams, every resident, our environment and our future’, she added.

Sign up here to receive our free weekly news bulletin and quarterly e-book.