News

The Borough of Poole is to benefit from a new fleet of vehicles to modernise and improve services for residents.

After extensive negotiations, Poole's Executive Committee has chosen a preferred bidder - MHS Highway Hire - to provide the Council's 130 strong fleet of vehicles. As part of the contract due to be signed in November, the company will procure, manage and maintain vehicles ranging from new refuse trucks to day centre buses on behalf of the Council.

Councillor Bob Williams, Executive Spokesperson for Environment and Prosperity, said: "We look forward to working in partnership with MHS to ensure that we deliver high quality services to residents in the Borough of Poole. After considerable consultation, staff, officers and Councillors have chosen a quality partner and I hope that this will demonstrate our commitment to first class equipment and employment which will give new stability and confidence in the services we provide".

During the first nine months up to 60% of the vehicles will be replaced with priority on the refuse and cleansing fleet. Some Council owned vehicles will be retained and maintained by MHS and all vehicles will be guaranteed to perform to agreed high standards.

Peter Pawlowski, Head of Consumer Protection, Borough of Poole, said: "MHS was overwhelmingly the best quality bid for the Council and local people. I look forward to a high performance standard from the vehicles so that we can concentrate on improving front line services to reach the high standards of service the community expect."

The annual cost of the new and improved fleet will be contained within the existing budget and the new contract, set to run for 10 years amounts to £10 - 15 million. As part of the process a specially convened panel evaluated the bids and members of staff were consulted. With MHS the preferred bidder, eight staff are due to transfer to the company once the contract is signed.

Ian Handley, Managing Director, MHS, said: "We are delighted to win the contract and look forward to developing a base in Poole. Our intention is to establish a good relationship with the Borough and provide a quality fleet of vehicles. We are aware of the recent difficulties and are confident that we can resolve them."