Christchurch BID today announced the launch of ‘Joule’, a compact, fully electric utility vehicle dedicated to servicing and improving the Christchurch BID levy area. Joule will support day‑to‑day maintenance, event logistics and visual improvements across the BID district, helping enhance the visitor and working experience in the town.
Joule, built in France by Ligier and supplied by West Midlands-based Compact Electric Vehicles, is an eco-friendly, road legal, fully electric, zero-emissions vehicle that will be used to maintain and enhance the Christchurch BID area.
Built for practical, sustainable town‑centre work, Joule will be used for seasonal planting and watering of flower displays, litter picking, leaf clearance, external cleaning, gum removal, weeding and graffiti removal. The vehicle is also intended to provide a visible presence to help deter anti‑social activity and support reporting to local policing teams.
Funding for Joule was made possible through a BCP Council grant from the Town Centres Improvement Fund, enabling Christchurch BID to expand on local council services while also delivering visible enhancements for levy‑paying businesses.
Joule will be operated on a part‑time basis by our local Maintenance Ranger and well-known local landscaper Tony. Together, Joule and Tony will respond to online job requests submitted by businesses within the BID area as well as carrying out regular weekly rounds to maintain Christchurch.
Christchurch BID Operations Manager Eloise Howes commented, “Our new compact electric vehicle, fondly named Joule (honouring its French origins), is a practical, eco-friendly investment for Christchurch and its businesses. Joule and Tony will provide a consistent solution to maintain the attractiveness of Christchurch town centre.”
Cllr Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, added, “It’s great to see Christchurch BID using the BCP Town Centres Improvement Fund to directly enhance and maintain the Christchurch BID area. In purchasing three-tiered pedestals, seasonal planting and Joule, they are investing directly into the town to positively impact its appearance for residents and visitors.”
