A convoy of 16 brand new kerbside recycling vehicles has arrived in North Devon ready to carry out weekly collections across the district.

The vehicles, all manufactured by Romaquip, have been supplied by the council’s vehicle and workshop partner, Specialist Fleet Services (SFS).

In September 2021, North Devon Council joined forces with Somerset West and Taunton Council in a procurement exercise and awarded a seven-year contract to SFS for the provision and management of over 200 vehicles. 

Romaquip Kerb-Sort vehicles are designed ergonomically to maximise the range and volume of materials that can be collected directly from people’s homes.

There are seven fully enclosed compartments, to eliminate the risk of litter and to enable every category of material to be stored separately.

When safe to do so the vehicle can even be loaded from both sides simultaneously and to optimise load space plastics, cans and cardboard can be automatically compacted. 

Councillor Ian Roome, Leader of North Devon Council said: “The arrival of our new fleet marks a significant step in our commitment to sustainability. These vehicles enhance our recycling efforts, ensuring a more efficient and eco-friendly collection process for the benefit of our community and the environment.” 

Bob Sweetland, SFS MD, said: “We are pleased to be able to provide North Devon Council with this fleet of vehicles, which will help to maximise the amount of recycling that is collected, in an efficient and safe way.”

Matt Patanden, Romaquip UK sales manager, added: “Romaquip is extremely pleased and grateful for the opportunity to supply the new fleet into North Devon District Council (NDDC) through SFS.

”Both NDDC & SFS are longstanding customers of ours and we appreciate the continued support we receive from both parties.

”These vehicles, from our 2024 range, will help to future proof collections as they are configured to address the ever-changing recycling habits of residents.”

 SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023. It specialises in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK.

The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.

Pictured (left to right) with the new Romaquip fleet at North Devon Council (NDC) are Matthew Patanden, Romaquip UK sales manager, Jeffrey Bennett, SFS southern operations manager, councillor Ian Roome, NDC leader, Steve Howlett, NDC fleet contract manager, and Mark Kentell, NDC head of environmental enhancement.