Westmorland and Furness Council has today approved its Fleet Decarbonisation and Replacement Strategy 2025–2035, marking a major step forward in the authority’s commitment to achieving carbon net zero.
The strategy outlines how the Council will decarbonise its fleet of around 390 vehicles over the next decade, ensuring it is prepared for the UK Government’s 2030 and 2035 deadlines to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles.
The Council’s vehicle fleet currently produces greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to around 1,400 cars, with 84% of emissions generated by specialist heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs). The new strategy sets out a clear pathway to reduce these emissions by 74% through a combination of introducing electric vehicles and transitioning to renewable fuels.
Cllr Peter Thornton, Cabinet Member for Highways and ICT, said:
"This strategy represents a significant investment in the future of Westmorland and Furness. By moving to cleaner, more efficient vehicles, we are not only reducing harmful emissions but also playing our part in addressing the climate emergency. The strategy demonstrates how local government can lead by example, using innovation and forward planning to deliver practical and affordable solutions to a global challenge."
The strategy was informed by independent consultancy Cenex, which carried out a comprehensive review of the fleet, infrastructure, and decarbonisation options. The review considered a range of technologies and fuels, with the findings confirming that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) offer the most viable solutions for large-scale deployment within Westmorland and Furness.
Key milestones in the decarbonisation pathway include:
• A 13% reduction in emissions through the introduction of the first 90 electric cars and vans, alongside two electric refuse collection vehicles and two electric minibuses.
• A 61% reduction in emissions by transitioning remaining HGVs and minibuses to HVO fuel as an interim solution.
• A long-term ambition for the entire fleet to transition to zero-emission vehicles, powered by renewable electricity.
The approved strategy also sets out the financial implications of decarbonising the fleet. Over the next ten years, capital expenditure is forecast at £26.16 million, with £5.23 million required in the next five years. Annual running costs are expected to be £2.24 million, representing a significant but necessary investment in reducing the Council’s carbon footprint.
Cllr Giles Archibald, Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity and Environmental Services, said:
"Our Council Plan commits us to becoming carbon net zero, and this strategy delivers on that promise. As one of the largest and most rural local authorities in England, we face unique challenges, but with this strategy we are confident we can build a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future for our residents."
The Fleet Decarbonisation and Replacement Strategy aligns with the Council Plan, Council Plan Delivery Framework, Climate Action Plan, Carbon Management Strategy, and Electric Vehicle Strategy, reinforcing Westmorland and Furness Council’s commitment to climate leadership and sustainability.
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