New electric gully cleaning trucks will keep Westminster’s 15,000 gullies and drains clear to prevent flooding and keep the city moving.

Road debris, litter or fallen leaves from the city’s 19,000 trees can cause these gullies to block.

The cleaning crew use high-powered water jets in the gully to remove any stubborn debris. Following this, they use suction hoses to remove any excess grime. While the gully is being cleaned, the crew will also inspect it for any signs of damage. Any issues are noted, and repairs made as necessary to ensure the gully is functioning properly.

The latest addition to the fleet now includes an all-electric version. With a range of 250km, it works in the exact same way to its diesel fuelled counterparts but is far quieter whilst in operation. Not only does the new vehicle produce less noise and emit fewer emissions, but the low maintenance truck also requires less servicing and repairs allowing it to stay out work for longer.

This low maintenance vehicle is part of a wider, long-term strategy  in the council’s net zero aims. As part of a Fairer Westminster, the council has set the target of being a net zero council by 2030 and a net zero city by 2040. Similarly, to the all-electric waste refuse vehicles and FM Conway’s electric road paver, the electric gully truck is able to use the charge points around the borough.

Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality said:

“It’s no easy task to make sure all of Westminster’s gullies and drains stay clear of debris and flood free. Our teams and their hard work keep the city moving throughout the year. It’s great to see this all-new electric vehicle covering the many miles of roads in Westminster and these vehicles are a step in the right direction to meet our net zero targets.”