First local authority in Wales joins Eco Stars

Newport City Council has become the first local authority in Wales to join the Eco Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme.

The voluntary scheme encourages and supports operators of HGVs, vans, buses and coaches to run their fleets more efficiently and to improve local air quality

So far Newport City Council’s Transport Unit, Newport Norse and Wastesavers have signed up, alongside the Owens Group, Amberon Traffic Management and Jumbo Cruiser.

Councillor Ray Truman said: “We are delighted to be bringing the Eco Stars scheme to Newport and will be spreading the word about the benefits of fleet operators signing up to get help and advice on how to operate more efficiently, reduce fuel consumptions and as a result reduce costs.

“This will help the council’s drive towards a cleaner, greener Newport.”

Newport City Council’s Transport Unit has been awarded a four-star rating from the scheme.

The free Eco Stars fleet recognition scheme also aims to help fleet operators reduce fuel consumption and emissions. 

The scheme was originally created by councils in South Yorkshire (Barnsley, Doncaster, Sheffield and Rotherham), but has now been adopted by other council areas in the UK as well as Europe. 

Ann Beddoes, Eco Stars scheme manager from Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, said: “I am delighted to welcome Newport City Council as members of Eco Stars, the first scheme in Wales.

“I wish them every success in their drive to reduce air pollution and improve air quality.”

In total, individual schemes have 400 members with over 45,000 vehicles and are managed by transport consultants, TRL Limited.

Last year, The East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) became the 100th member to join the Eco Stars fleet recognition scheme.