Civic car switch leads to savings

Local authorities across the country are facing tough times ahead due to budget cuts and many are identifying areas where savings can be made. At Caerphilly county borough council even the Mayor's official car is not exempt from the belt tightening.

As part of its plans to cut spending, Caerphilly has decided to get rid of the luxury S Class Mercedes previously used by the civic head and instead the authority has opted for a more cost effective vehicle in the shape of a Skoda.

The council has agreed a new lease contract for a Skoda Superb Elegance and the vehicle change has led to significant annual savings from a hefty £11,500 for the Mercedes to a cost effective £5,000 for the Skoda.

As well has halving the leasing costs there are also environmental benefits in the form of improved fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions. Skoda quote a combined average of 46mpg compared to around 25mpg from the Mercedes. The Skoda will produce co2 emissions of 159g/km compared to 209g/km for the Mercedes.

"The council needs to make some difficult decisions about budget cuts and we want to ensure that frontline services are protected, so now is not the time to be spending large amounts of money on things like luxury cars" said leader of council, Cllr Lindsay Whittle. "We are keen to show residents that we are determined to deal with budget pressures using sound financial management and we will continue to cut waste and spend our scarce resources where they are most needed."

"Traditionally, local authorities have spent large amounts of money on top of the range vehicles to transport their Mayors to official functions, but in this tough economic climate people are questioning such extravagances and we have a duty to provide our residents with value for money. We feel this sends out a clear message that we are leading by example," he added.