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Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Councils call on the public to help name new fleet of cooking oil-powered bin lorries




Wordplay wizards and 'binfluencers' are being called on as two Suffolk councils ask the public to name its new fleet of eco-friendly bin lorries.

From today until November 13, Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Councils are accepting entries to name the 22 new bin lorries set to hit the streets during the winter.

It provides the opportunity for residents to leave their mark on public services.

Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Council will be introducing 22 new green bin lorries. Picture: Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Council
Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Council will be introducing 22 new green bin lorries. Picture: Babergh and Mid-Suffolk District Council

The authorities, which cover towns including Hadleigh, Sudbury, and Stowmarket, are particularly interested in names that combine recycling and waste with references to films, celebrities and more.

The addition of these new lorries is the single largest upgrade the council has made to its 35-strong bin fleet in a decade, some of which will be phased out to make way.

They are powered using HVO, a biodiesel made from waste cooking oil.

In total, the authority spent £2m on the upgrade.

It expects the lorries to make around 100,000 collections per week.

Councillor Elisabeth Malvisi, cabinet member for environment at Babergh District Council, said having a modernised fleet is essential.

Bin collecting is among the most visible jobs the council undertakes, so taking steps to be more environmentally-friendlyis a must.

She added: “The lorries play a key role in reducing our carbon emissions after we became the first rural councils in the UK to use HVO fuel last year.

“We know how much our crews’ arrival is anticipated by many each week. So, what better way to get residents involved than by inviting them to have a bit of fun naming the bin lorries that pass their doors."

Cllr Jessica Fleming, cabinet member for environment at Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “Whether you’re your street’s 'binfluencer' or one of our youngest residents eagerly awaiting the lorries’ arrival every week – bin collections matter to everyone across our districts.

“We hope this competition is a fun way for our residents to join in and get creative by naming the lorries they see around the district every week.”