Mid and East Antrim residents to benefit from replacement investment drive
Monday 15 September 2025
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council recently took delivery of several vehicles as part of their drive towards their targets to become more economically efficient, environmentally friendly and to improve staff health and safety at work.
The Council’s comprehensive 7-year vehicle replacement programme for its fleet of Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) is a strategic initiative which also aims to ensure the reliability of service delivery for residents and businesses across the borough.
The vehicle replacement programme is expected to deliver long-term savings to Council through improved reliability and reduced repair frequency. Replacing aging vehicles with newer, more efficient models will significantly reduce maintenance costs, fuel consumption, and downtime.
The structured replacement cycle also allows for better financial planning and asset management, ensuring value for money for ratepayers.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “A modern, well-maintained fleet of RCVs is essential for delivering consistent and high-quality waste collection services for our residents and the businesses we service.
“It is also an important investment in the equipment that we provide for our staff that are on the frontline of delivering these vital services – and reflects a proactive approach to creating a safer working environment for our waste collection teams.
“The replacement programme ensures that vehicles are fit for purpose and safe, reducing the risk of service disruption due to mechanical failure.
“It also enables the Council to respond more flexibly to future service demands and legislative changes.”
The vehicle replacement programme has enabled Council to phase out older vehicles and introduce modern RCVs equipped with the latest safety technologies, such as 360-degree cameras, improved braking systems, and ergonomic cab designs. With these technological advances, Council aims to reduce workplace injuries and road incidents, prioritising the safety of both Council staff and the public.
From an environmental perspective, the new fleet incorporates low-emission and alternative fuel vehicles, including models that can be powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and other sustainable technologies – aligning the replacement of RCVs with the Council’s Climate Action Plan.
This transition supports the Council’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for all.