A fleet of approximately 100 vehicles that facilitate North Northamptonshire Council’s Housing services are now being maintained by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) at its depot in Kettering.

The 3-year contract commenced at the beginning of August and SFS has already invested in new equipment for the workshop including a 4.5t ramp, additional tooling and diagnostic equipment. In addition, two technicians have carried out Level 3 EV vehicle training to accommodate the hybrid and electric vehicles that form part of the fleet.

SFS is a long-term vehicle partner to North Northamptonshire Council, the origins of which go back over twenty years. In 2013 the then Kettering Borough Council awarded SFS with a fleet supply and maintenance contract that required the expansion of local workshop facilities.  Having made further investment in equipment and staffing this summer, these resources will now be deployed to maintain the vehicles relating to this latest contract.

Cllr Matt Binley, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, said: “Making sure we have vehicles that are fit for purpose and well maintained is vital to ensure that we are able to deliver the services that residents expect and our officers are able to reach all areas of North Northamptonshire to help residents. 

“It is also important that we look to the future and it’s great that SFS are now able to support our growing number of hybrid and electric vehicles too.”

Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We are delighted to be expanding our service provision with North Northamptonshire Council to include maintenance of this additional fleet. We will continue to invest in the team, the depot and the fleet to enhance the delivery of essential council services.

“As the only independent contract hire company that is owned by a publicly quoted bank, we are in a strong position financially and this gives us the ability to invest in our customers’ vehicles and workshop facilities without any need for external borrowing.”

Owned by Paragon Banking Group SFS, which celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023, has a unique financial stability and has earned a reputation as a reliable and steadfast partner for local authorities. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.

For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601or email [email protected]