Directory

Access tools

News

14 Mar 00

REPLACEMENT OF POOLE'S MAYORAL CAR

A decision on the replacement for Poole's Mayoral car, APR 1, is expected on Wednesday 15 March 2000.

Members of the Borough of Poole's Personnel and Support Services Committee are being asked to approve the lease of a new four door Volvo Saloon to replace the present Mayoral car.

Alan Barlow, Policy Director, Borough of Poole, said: "Because of age there have been a growing number of mechanical problems and increasing costs with the present car which have meant that it needs to be replaced. Over the last few months we have been testing a number of cars, looking at cost, comfort and environmentally friendly options, to find the best replacement. When we looked at the kind of saloon on offer, leasing seemed to be the most sensible way forward, providing reliable transport now and in the future which will cost less in the long run".

The Volvo S80 Saloon will cost approximately £5,500 per annum, which will include maintenance and running costs. Poole's prized APR1 number-plate will be transferred to the new vehicle.

Poole's current Mayoral car, a Ford Granada Limousine has already cost £8,350 this financial year in repairs and maintenance, a further increase on last year's cost of £4,382. Now 10 over years old, a significant sum has been spent each year to enable the vehicle to pass its MOT test.

Once approved, it is hoped the new car will be available within approximately 6 weeks after which the Ford Granada will be sold.

-ends-

Alan Barlow, Policy Director, Borough of Poole, tel: (01202) 633203