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       The Council has unveiled the latest addition to its growing fleet of electric vehicles – a new all-electric road marking machine.
       Not only will this innovative new machine help cut costs and help Reading achieve its goal of becoming a zero carbon city by reducing carbon emissions by 60%, it will also allow more staff to be trained and upskilled to renew road markings in Reading.
       The road marking machine was on display during a visit by the council’s roads innovation group, LCRIG, last week. Reading Borough Council chief executive Paula Claytonsmith was given a tour of the machine, along with a range of other innovative solutions being introduced by Reading Borough Council to improve the quality, efficiency and lifespan of the road network. The event was attended by the Mayor of Reading, Councillor Tony Page and lead councillor for environment and community safety, Karen Rowland.
       The electric vehicle replaces the old diesel car and can run for 8 hours on a single charge. It also uses cold-applied paints rather than conventional hot-applied materials, meaning paint lines will be quieter, reduce carbon emissions, last longer and be more environmentally friendly.
       The council also showcased new products designed to extend the life of Reading’s roads and pavements. These included the recent installation of Rhinophalt anti-corrosion coating at the A33 junction with the M4 and along sections of the A33. Rhinophalt is an anti-corrosion layer applied to the existing road surface which extends the life of the road. It is quicker, easier and less disruptive than rebuilding the entire road, which requires removing the road surface. A similar product is used on pavements in Reading. It is more cost-effective than traditional coating methods and protects the road surface more quickly, while reducing our carbon footprint.
       The introduction of new temperature sensor technology is another development that will benefit Reading Road residents. As winter approaches, sensors are being installed and monitored across the borough to provide accurate, localised temperature readings in real time, ensuring that surface weed control resources are focused where they are needed in any given situation. Improved temperature data will ensure that weed control is only carried out where it is needed, so there is no blanket weed control in areas of the area where treatment may not be required. This will reduce waste, materials, costs and importantly, the Council’s carbon footprint.
       Sensor technology is also being introduced into traffic lights to provide more dynamic signals, improving traffic flow and helping to reduce carbon emissions by keeping cars moving smoothly around Reading, as well as improving air quality.
       LCRIG representatives were also informed about the Commission’s use of iTip handles, which allow operators using carts and other portable technology to use them safely, minimising the risk of injury and operator strain.
       “The great thing about what Reading has done is that it has innovated with its team and suppliers. Electric road marking machines will make a huge difference and have a huge impact in terms of the environment. The iTip pen is a great way to look after the health of operators. We work with over 100 highways authorities and Reading is in the top four for improving supply and using innovation.”
       Karen Rowland, Reading Borough Council’s lead adviser for environment and community safety, said:
       “The delivery of these new innovations is exactly what residents can expect from our award-winning Highways team in Reading. The team is really focused on the council’s zero emissions target, which is the driving force behind these innovations, but the benefits go far beyond that.
       “Bringing more motorway operations in-house, such as the new electric line marking vehicles, means we can respond to residents’ requests more quickly. Savings from reducing reliance on contractors and providing our staff with opportunities to upskill along career paths are additional benefits. This team is constantly coming up with new ideas which, when combined, really start to turn over a new leaf and ensure our transport routes are at the forefront of innovation in the race to achieve this council’s net zero emissions target.”