New sweeper clearing the way for cleaner, greener travel
Clearing the way for cyclists and walkers is Telford and Wrekin’s latest addition to its fleet of vehicles – a compact road sweeper.
The C401 has already visited 12 areas and swept more than 450 miles, clearing away more than 40 tonnes of general litter in readiness for people starting to get outdoors after the winter.
The new sweeper, dubbed ‘Basil’ by the crew, will remove winter leaf litter and dropped rubbish, improving access along the routes and supporting sustainable travel.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, Regeneration and the High Street, Councillor Lee Carter said: “It’s only a small machine but it’s going to have a big impact as it travels throughout the borough, clearing the way making the routes accessible and usable by all.
“The world as we know it is changing; over the last two years we have seen a significant increase in residents making use of our fantastic open spaces with many using our paths and cycle routes to access them. This dedicated machine will ensure our infrastructure is clean and safe as more and more people get out and about in the borough.
"We have had an increase in requests from residents to clear these routes and this latest addition to the sweeping fleet, we’ll make sure it’s done efficiently and effectively - enabling them to do more, using less and creating cleaner, greener and safer environments for everyone.
Special front facing brushes can access hard to reach areas and extra sturdy brushes for deep clean in areas where material is compacted. The hopper that collects the debris has a 500kg capacity ensuring long days out and about keeping the borough tidy.
Areas that 'Basil' has already visited include between Newport to the clock tower, Muxton, St George’s, Trench Lock to Denso, Holyhead Road in Ketley, Halesfield, Telford Way, Madeley, Ketley, Old Park, The Rock and Wrockwardine Wood Way.
The sweeper will follow a set programme of work to cover all areas of the borough over a rolling cycle.
