RESIDENTS are set to see robotic delivery drivers on the streets of Barnsley for the next three months as part of a special trial in the town.
Anyone living in Redbrook can opt into the trial which will give residents a glimpse into the future.
It’s part of a partnership between Evri, the UK’s premier parcel delivery company, and ‘Delivers.AI’.
It will will see a pilot run for at least three months.
It aims to explore how robotics can support local couriers, while enhancing the overall delivery experience for consumers through increased choice and convenience.
The news comes just weeks after Barnsley was announced as the UK’s first ‘tech town’ - and it’s hoped that the new trial will benefit and run alongside the government scheme.
Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “As the UK’s first government-backed tech town, it’s fantastic to see this type of innovation, which could become the future for home deliveries, taking place here in Barnsley.
“It is initiatives and ideas like this which are trialling new technologies that will play a crucial role in us becoming the UK’s leading digital town, one the missions from our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy.
“We wish Evri every success with this trial and will be following it with interest.”
The robots are weatherproof, compliant with traffic laws and electric-powered, offering a secure and sustainable delivery option.
Designed to operate 24/7, they offer greater flexibility for customers - whether that’s receiving a parcel late at night or choosing a designated time slot that consumers and can fit around busy lifestyles.
They can also wait longer at the door, which helps people who may need more time to answer, and with a compact design standing at 80cm tall, they’re accessible to wheelchair users too.
Marcus Hunter, chief technology officer at Evri, added: “We’re always looking at innovative ways to improve the delivery experience for our customers.
“The robots will work alongside our couriers, supporting them in their roles while helping to increase the speed, convenience and flexibility of the services we offer.
“We’re excited to see how the residents in Barnsley respond to this new service, and what we can learn from the trial.”
As part of the pilot, Evri will be looking to demonstrate the robot and its technology to local schools and give children the opportunity to name the robot.
It will be based out of Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre (BBIC) - and the robots are fully monitored by Evri’s operations team in partnership with Delivers.AI in real time.
If an issue arises, such as an obstruction or attempted tampering, Evri can intervene immediately and even manually redirect the robot if needed.
Martin Beesley, from BBIC, added: “Hosting this pilot at The Business Village demonstrates how Barnsley is putting innovation into practice.
“From my position at BBIC and as a member of the Barnsley Inclusive Economy Board, I see this as a strong signal of the borough’s ambition.
“It supports our digital and logistics sectors, brings new technology directly into the community, and reinforces Barnsley’s reputation as a place where practical, forward-looking innovation can thrive.”
n Anyone in the area can opt into the scheme on Evri’s website.
