Havant Council's Plant Transporter

April 11, 2016

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Havant Borough Council's Year-Round Efficiency with AKFS Plant and Go® Trucks</h2>

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<p>In the world of Grounds Maintenance, efficiency and flexibility are paramount. Paul Stanley and his dedicated grounds maintenance team at Havant Borough Council recognised the need for a versatile solution to transport their equipment seamlessly throughout the year. Traditionally relying on panel vans and trailers, the team faced the challenge of underutilisation during certain seasons and sought a purpose-built vehicle to maximize productivity.</p>

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<p>Enter AKFS in Andover, the solution provider that Paul turned to in search of a specialised vehicle that could handle plant and equipment transport year-round. The traditional setup, using panel vans with 16-foot trailers, proved wasteful during off-seasons when vehicles were primarily relegated to winter maintenance operations. Seeking a cost-effective alternative, Paul approached AKFS with a unique set of requirements.</p>

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<p>The challenge was to design a vehicle with a payload suitable for transporting ride-on mowers, push-along mowers, and various equipment, all within the weight constraints of 3500 kg gross vehicle weight. Additionally, the vehicle needed a drop-down full-width tailgate, a wider track rear axle to accommodate large mowers, removable drop sides, and a toolbox for essential hand tools.</p>

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<p>AKFS rose to the occasion and crafted a bespoke solution—a lightweight aluminum-bodied vehicle with a beavertail and a tailgate, eliminating the need for trailers. The dedicated toolbox installed at the back of the cab provided additional space and flexibility, simplifying the transportation of heavy plant equipment. This innovative design not only streamlined the loading and offloading process but also improved overall safety conditions for the team.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img src="<https://www.advanced-kfs.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/havant-councils-plant-transporter-1024x768.webp>" alt="" class="wp-image-11064"/></figure>

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<p>Havant Council acquired three <a href="<https://www.advanced-kfs.co.uk/vehicle/plant-and-go/>">Plant and Go®</a> vehicles, replacing two panel vans and trailers, resulting in a significant efficiency boost. The vehicles, designed for year-round use, now serve multiple purposes beyond Grounds Maintenance, including transporting leaves, salt, or topsoil. Paul Stanley emphasised the positive impact on the team's working conditions, stating, "We don't have to manhandle equipment on and off trailers. This vehicle is purpose-built for Grounds Maintenance and parkland care, but it is also useful for other services where you have to shift a heavy load or deliver goods somewhere."</p>

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<p>The vehicles' low height of 550mm not only enhances operator safety but also facilitates easier storage and maneuverability. The integration of a purpose-made extruded aluminum planking system with a ribbed finish ensures grip in any weather condition.</p>

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<p>Beyond operational benefits, the new vehicles brought about efficiency savings in parking space, a critical consideration for the team operating from a limited depot. The switch to Plant and Go® trucks created an additional 48 feet of parking space, further highlighting the positive impact on the overall logistics of the Grounds Maintenance operations.</p>

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<p>Paul Stanley is already contemplating further additions to the fleet, considering the success of the Plant and Go® trucks. The groundbreaking solution from AKFS not only transformed the way Havant Borough Council approached Grounds Maintenance duties but also set a new standard for year-round efficiency in the sector.</p>

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<p>Post updated 17th November 2023.</p>

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