Waste collection disruptions in Reading due to vehicle issues
The council steps in with backup diesel fleet as electrical faults affect service
Residents in Reading are facing delays in waste collection services due to electrical faults in the fleet vehicles operated by Reading Borough Council.
The affected electric vehicles have been temporarily stood down as investigations into the faults continue.
In a bid to ensure minimal disruption, diesel vehicles from the council's spare fleet have been deployed.
Regular collections are expected to resume by Saturday, 29th August.
Reading Borough Council began the transition to an electric fleet in 2021, introducing Berkshire's first electric waste vehicle.
Currently, the fleet consists of 13 electric vehicles, part of the Council's Carbon Plan 2020-25.
While acknowledging the environmental benefits, the council recognises challenges associated with early adoption of this technology.
The vehicle manufacturer is actively working with the council to find immediate and long-term solutions for these technical issues.
Cllr Liz Terry, Leader of Reading Borough Council, addressed the disruption: "I understand residents’ discontent when there is a delay to waste services. While I support services to become more environmentally conscious, the repeated issues caused by the vehicles is unacceptable.
“The Council is working closely with the manufacturer to address the issues with the electric fleet to improve reliability and the effectiveness of our service first.
“I would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding while we resolve the issue."