A Seamless Switch for Middlesbrough Borough Council

Fleetclear has been working with Middlesbrough Borough Council’s Waste, Recycling and Enforcement team for several years, supporting the safety and performance of a diverse fleet. This includes 26-tonne Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), specialist recycling vehicles and road sweepers, as well as minibuses and vans.

The council’s refuse, recycling and van fleet is fully equipped with Fleetclear live DVR camera systems, vehicle tracking and telematics, and anti-rollaway technology. All data is consolidated through the Fleetclear Connect software platform, giving the team full visibility across operations.

Dale Metcalfe, Waste, Recycling and Enforcement Manager, oversees the day-to-day delivery of waste services, paid-for services and the council’s enforcement arm. He explains:

“Like many fleet operators, we were facing increasing pressure around health & safety and compliance, which Fleetclear has taken care of. The technology has also improved how we operate by helping us run the fleet as efficiently as possible.

“For example, the telematics functionality ensures we use the right routes and that all drivers follow the required legislation when on the road.”

The onboard camera systems provide drivers with a 360° view around the vehicle, which is particularly valuable when manoeuvring large vehicles in busy or hard-to-access areas.

“It also means drivers can see where operatives are at all times during collection rounds,” Dale adds.

A Smooth Transition

The transition and installation process was described as very smooth, with the council kept informed throughout and provided with a clear installation timeline. New vehicles arrive already fitted with Fleetclear technology, fully configured and ready for use.

“New vehicles, along with their cameras and technology, appear automatically on the Fleetclear Connect dashboard, which we really like,” says Dale.

Transformational Impact

“Switching to Fleetclear has been transformational for us as an organisation. We can now operate to the highest standards. The technology is easy to use and reasonably priced, which is a major consideration for organisations working with limited budgets.”

Fleetclear’s commitment to continuous improvement and product innovation is another key factor for the council, helping them stay at the forefront of vehicle safety technology.

“I recently attended a Fleetclear event in Wigan where I saw a demonstration of the new Live Lane Information System (LLIS). It uses AI to detect live traffic in adjacent lanes and activates an illuminated sign at the rear of the vehicle to alert operatives to approaching traffic.

“We’re considering trialling it on some of our refuse collection vehicles where crew members are working in and around highways, as it can only help to improve safety.”

Trusted Support

The standard of service provided by the Fleetclear team has also been a major positive for the council:

“We really value our interaction with the Fleetclear team. They’re very helpful and, on the rare occasion there is an issue, it’s usually minor and dealt with immediately. I have no reservations whatsoever in recommending Fleetclear to other operators and councils.”

Looking ahead, Middlesbrough Borough Council is due to receive a new food waste collection fleet, along with seven new recycling vehicles, all of which will be fitted with Fleetclear technology.

Thanks for the feedback, Dale!

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