Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Roads Service has strengthened its operational fleet with the purchase of two gully cleaning units and four street sweepers, delivering a significant upgrade in capability across the region
The investment responds directly to feedback from Roads Service teams, who identified new gully-cleaning and road‑sweeping equipment as one of the top priorities needed to improve day‑to‑day operations and support the ongoing maintenance of the region’s 7,000 km road network.
This fleet investment strengthens the council’s ability to clear gullies more frequently and reduce surface‑water and flooding issues; improve road sweeping coverage in towns, villages and high‑use routes and reduce downtime and improve reliability through more modern, durable equipment.
The two gully cleaning units are engineered for efficient roadside operation, combining a corrosion‑resistant tank, a powerful hydraulic‑driven vacuum system, and a flexible boom that allows operatives to reach gullies safely from the carriageway. Their high‑capacity jetting systems are designed to clear blockages more effectively, particularly in rural areas where clogged gullies can significantly increase flood risk.
The four new street sweepers bring a step‑change in cleansing performance, offering a larger hopper capacity, improved suction, reduced fuel use, and durable low‑wear components that help cut maintenance costs. Water‑saving technology reduces consumption by up to 20%, supporting both environmental and operational efficiency. Their robust design makes them well‑suited to the region’s mix of urban and rural routes.
Training for Roads Service staff on the new vehicles is underway, with deployment scheduled to begin the week commencing 23 March.
Cllr Andy Ferguson, Chair of Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said:
“Our Roads Service teams work tirelessly to maintain one of the largest road networks in Scotland, and they told us clearly that upgraded vehicles were one of the top things that would help them make a real difference. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to invest in this new equipment, which will strengthen our ability to keep routes clear, safe and well maintained all year round.”
Cllr Tony Berretti, Vice‑Chair of Economy and Infrastructure Committee, added:
“This investment is about giving our teams the tools they need to deliver the high‑quality service our communities expect. The new gully tankers and sweepers will play a vital role in tackling flood risk, improving cleanliness and supporting more efficient maintenance across the region. This is a very positive step forward for our Roads Service and for the people of Dumfries and Galloway.”
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