A BOROUGH has taken delivery of the first four of 10 new eco-friendly bin wagons.

The replacement refuse and recycling vehicles are fitted with zero carbon emission electric lifters which carry the waste and recycling bins into the collection vehicle.

The investment is a step along the journey to make Hyndburn Council’s activities net-carbon zero by 2030.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of the authority, said: “Our refuse vehicles are replaced on a rolling programme and our new additions mean we are on track to have all 10 of the fleet green by Autumn 2021. Feedback from drivers and residents has been really positive so far, with people noticing the reduction in noise as the loaders are much quieter when being used.”

Cllr Paul Cox, its cabinet member for environmental services said: “Long-term this investment will save us money and benefit the community, with 12 per cent fuel savings and significant reduction in Co2 emissions compared to previous vehicle models.”

Michael Ainsworth, Hyndburn Council's transport manager, said: “With these new vehicles, drivers get a personal device that is electronically linked to the truck. It means if they have to leave the vehicle for any reason it cannot be operated by someone else.”

The new vehicles have been supplied by Go Plant Fleet Services.