A ROBOT that delivers parcels to people living in Lyde Green could soon be seen on streets across the country.
The six-wheeled robot started making deliveries from DPD’s depot in Oakwood Drive in March, following an earlier trial in Milton Keynes, and the company says “the feedback has been excellent so far”.
Named Percy, the robot delivers small parcels to homes and businesses within a mile and a half of the depot.
A company spokesperson said: “The robots work really well, and we have now identified up to 30 depots where they could operate very successfully.
“The advantages are that they are electric, so are potentially more environmentally friendly, and can operate autonomously for up to 12 hours a day.
“While there are limitations on their range and the types of parcels they can deliver, they could ultimately result in less vans on the road.”
Not all residents are convinced of the benefits of robot deliveries, however.
In a recent post on Facebook group Lyde Green Local, a resident posted a picture of a stalled Percy on the footpath in Howsmoor Lane, reporting that it had been stuck there for an hour and later had to be returned to the depot after missing deliveries.
Another resident reported receiving a text that Percy had arrived with their delivery but then “had to go and find him…he was three streets away”.
Others reported the robot having problems negotiating dropped kerbs.
One resident asked if there was a “Percy fan club” but another warned: “Everyone (is) rating Percy, but by the time 2035 comes there will be no jobs”.
The DPD spokesperson said: “To be honest, we have very few problems with Percy. He is fitted with cameras so the team can monitor what he is up to.
“He can deal with most things autonomously, but if he does get really stuck the team can always go out and help him!”