DIAL Contracts has won its most challenging fleet management contract to date - the maintenance management of the 2,250-strong operational fleet of The Environment Agency.

Dial Contracts division Dial Major Corporate won the three-year contract in a competitive tender following the Agency's decision to outsource. The move forms part of a new strategy for each of the Agency's eight regions to use a fleet management contractor via a national account.

The Environment Agency will continue to buy vehicles outright. However, instead of each region managing its own contractors, Dial will work in partnership with the Agency at both national and regional level to provide services in conjunction with existing Agency and Dial-approved suppliers to meet all requirements. The fleet consists mainly of car derived vans and light commercials. Many are modified to suit the terrain and conditions in which they work, with some having specialist equipment fitted