The Council of Orihuela has revealed plans to modernise its urban cleaning services through a significant investment of three million four hundred and thirty-nine thousand seven hundred and eighty-eight euros. The contract, one of the most substantial in recent years for public services, will facilitate the acquisition of new vehicles and machinery aimed at improving waste collection and street cleaning operations. This effort reflects the council’s commitment to sustainable and effective waste management as outlined in the Local Waste Plan.

The procurement process is divided into five lots, which includes the purchase of seven refuse collection trucks, consisting of three rear-loading and four side-loading models. This recent addition follows the acquisition of five trucks earlier, almost entirely renovating the old fleet. Additionally, the council plans to acquire three open box trucks with a capacity of three thousand five hundred kilos and four street sweepers, along with a watering vehicle and a hydro cleaner.

The new vehicles will comply with European emission standards, specifically Euro six, and will be equipped with advanced technology features, including geolocation systems, rear-view cameras, and safety devices for workers. The maximum delivery period for the new fleet will be nine months from the formalisation of the contract, which encompasses vehicle registration, institutional branding, and training for municipal staff on the use of these new vehicles.

Rocío Ortuño, the councillor for Street Cleaning and Urban Solid Waste Services, stated that this project constitutes a significant step towards achieving a modern, efficient fleet that respects environmental standards. She added that the investment aligns with public demand and the needs of service workers, marking a transformative period for waste collection and cleaning across the municipality. In total, over six million euros will have been invested in urban cleaning services during the current council’s term, with plans for future initiatives including the renewal of municipal waste container fleets.