Issue - meetings

RESOLVED:

1.     That the Cabinet recommend that Council approve a 2023/24 Vehicles and Plant Replacement budget of £2.400 million, to accommodate the purchases originally intended to be made in 2022/23, whilst noting the revenue implications to be picked up within the Council’s Medium Term Financial Plan.

2.     That the Cabinet note the intention to present the broader replacement programme 2023/24 as part of the Council’s Medium Term Financial Planning.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

As set out in the report.

KEY DECISION:

Report to Cabinet and Full Council.

PORTFOLIO:

Environment and Coastal Services / Finance, Investment and Corporate Services.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST(S):

None.

DISCUSSION:

The Portfolio Holder introduced the report and commended the recommendations.

The Service Manager, Waste and Transport, highlighted the challenges faced by the service in undertaking the replacement programme.  Detailed in full in the report, supply chain issues, inflation and global pressures were all contributing to the complexity of delivering the programme.  The table at 4.2 of the report detailed the current lead in times, which were significantly lengthened since 2019.  The Council’s commitment to contributing positively to tackle the Climate and Nature Emergency was highlighted, particularly in exploring alternative fuel options.

In response to one Member’s question on the cost of keeping older vehicles on the road, it was noted that there was an existing vehicle maintenance budget.  However, the economic life of Council vehicles and plant were continually reviewed to ensure the appropriate condition and reliability.