Police to use council workers for fleet vehicle servicing

The force has announced it has entered into a deal with York Council for mechanics at its Eco Depot, on James Street, to service its fleet of vehicles, which include police vans and mobile police stations.

The depot, which opened several years ago a cost of around £8m, is already used for repairs to all the council’s vehicles, such as bin lorries, as well as safety checks on the city’s hackney carriage fleet.

And it is hoped yesterday’s announcement will be the first of several, helping bring in extra money for the cash-strapped local authority as well as cutting the maintenance bills of the emergency services.

Geoff Derham, transport and fleet services project manager at York Council, said: “We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with another public sector organisation.

“Working with the police, and hopefully other such organisations, will allow us to keep our own costs down while providing value for money services for them.

“We are looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”

York Council says it is planning to create a “Public Sector Hub” at the depot, to service vehicles from organisations including the NHS and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, and is planning an open day in August to showcase its facilities.

The council claims any income generated will be re-invested back into the service.

Richard Flint, head of transport at North Yorkshire Police, said: “We had been looking for a suitable partner in the York area to undertake this work for us and York Council certainly fits the bill.

“We were impressed with their professionalism and the high quality maintenance facilities they offer.

“We are also looking forward to a cost-effective and sustainable working relationship.”

In addition to the new deal with the force, York Council will also be providing a repair service to other police vehicles based in the York area.

North Yorkshire Police says despite the new deal, its main repair facility will remain in Tadcaster, where it is currently based.