A MULTI-MILLION pound scheme to replace council vehicles with greener alternatives – which was signed off earlier this month – will play a ‘vital role’ in reducing carbon emissions.
The decision to buy 52 new vehicles was agreed based on several factors including increased maintenance costs and the need to reduce emissions.
A total of £4.5m will be spent on a range of vehicles, including bin lorries, school transport and housing services vehicles.
The council says that even when it secures competitive prices for its vehicles, rising costs mean it is still paying up to 18 per cent more than nine years ago.
Andy Simpson, head of commercial and operational service support, said: “We all have a part to play in helping Barnsley to be net zero carbon as a council by 2040 and as a borough by 2045, protecting our area for future generations.
“By making greener choices in the vehicles and fuels we use as a council, we’re helping reduce carbon emissions.
“These replacements will help to ensure that the council is properly equipped to continue to deliver excellent services to the residents of Barnsley in the most cost-effective way.”
