Meet “Sweeping Beauty”, Islington’s newest electric street sweeper

Helped by sister Aylin, Adele’s entry into a council competition to name the vehicles beat more than 130 suggestions from 16 schools across the borough, with the final choice being made by a public vote that attracted more than 240 votes. 

The new, eco-friendly vehicles will help cut emissions and save 20 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year – the equivalent of enough energy to power 15 homes for a year. 

It’s all part of Islington Council’s efforts to create a cleaner, healthier borough, and to work with people of all ages to make it happen. 

Paul Robinson, Acting Head Teacher of Thornhill Primary School, said: “As a school we work to embed environmentally friendly habits and encourage children to think about their impacts on future generations. 

“It is fantastic to see one of our own pupil’s creativity celebrated in this way and to see the council making it happen for a healthier, brighter future for our children.” 

Sweeping Beauty is one of three new street sweepers that will be out and about keeping Islington’s streets clean soon and will help reduce diesel consumption by more than 7,000 litres per year, saving approximately £6,000 in fuel costs. 

Cllr Rowena Champion, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality, and Transport, said: “It’s fantastic to see local children getting involved in shaping a more environmentally friendly future for Islington. 

“We all have a part to play in protecting our environment, and by engaging with young people we are making it happen by creating a lasting impact and a healthier place for all.  

“A huge congratulations to the pupils of Thornhill Primary School for their creativity – we can’t wait to see Sweeping Beauty out and about in the borough!” 

These street sweepers, designed with Bucher Municipal, are the first of their kind. They have been specifically created to meet the needs of the borough and will mean quieter, healthier and less polluting vehicles on our streets.