In 2017, the Conservative Administration reduced the road sweeping service from three vehicles to two. Although the department attempted to maintain a rota of sweeping gritting routes four times a year, it was unable to do so consistently.
Later that same year, one of the two remaining vehicles became unserviceable and was permanently removed from use. The Conservatives chose not to replace it, which severely impacted the service.
During 2022/23, road sweeping was suspended for extended periods due to staff annual leave, sickness, vehicle breakdowns, or the driver being redeployed to cover shortages in other departments.
We have worked to mitigate these inherited shortcomings while managing a very challenging financial position. Earlier this year, several Parish Councils offered support to help maintain services while broader structural budget issues are addressed. In addition, a weed control programme has been reinstated and will begin in September 2025, and a second road sweeper will return to service in autumn 2025.