A maintenance company has penned a new six-year contract with Richmond Council to maintain the borough's green spaces and parks.

The deal, which came into effect in February, promises 'significant benefits for both residents and the environment' the council say. 

The contractor, Krinkels (formerly operating in the borough as Continental Landscapes Ltd), has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality from the first year of the contract, propelling the council towards its aims to become a carbon-neutral council by 2030 and a net zero borough by 2043.

In addition to a number of electric vehicles, Krinkels will also introduce Hydrotreated-Vegetable-Oil (HVO) to its fleet, a stable, renewable, sustainable and high-quality diesel alternative, capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%. 

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, comments: "We want to ensure our borough remains one of the greenest and most sustainable in London.

"Awarding contracts like this allows us to make positive progress toward this vision and ensure our partners and service providers align with our commitments. 

"This not only ensures that our much-loved parks and open spaces continue to be beautifully maintained but also supports us in taking tangible steps toward reducing our carbon footprint, like introducing a more sustainable fleet, while also prioritising fair wages and local employment." 

Krinkels has also pledged to pay the London Living Wage, ensuring fair pay for all staff involved in maintaining the borough's green spaces.

Richmond Council believe the commitment aligns with its dedication to fair employment practices and supporting a thriving local workforce.