Buckingham Plant Hire is quitting the heavy site machinery sector after 69 years in the market.

The firm is selling off its 72-strong fleet of Caterpillar and Volvo kit to concentrate on light equipment through the ACE Plant brand.

The decision to step away from heavy plant activities coincides with the retirement of Paul Wheeler, who has served as Buckingham’s Managing Director since 1975.

Paul and Patricia Wheeler founded Buckingham Group Contracting which went into administration in September 2023 owing £300m.

They resigned as directors of the contracting operation in 2021 when it became the biggest contractor to transfer equity to an employee ownership trust.

Buckingham Plant Hire was the main kit supplier to Buckingham Group Contracting but was a separate business and not part of the administration process.

Paul Wheeler said: “Stepping away from our traditional roots in heavy plant has been a difficult decision, as it truly represents the end of an era.

“However, realistically, the UK heavy plant sector is going through a period of radical transition, and it’s time to hand over to the next generation. The decision to retire the heavy fleet is part of a longer-term business strategy designed to embrace a sustainable future.”

ACE Plant was established in 1973 and acquired by Buckingham Plant Hire Ltd in 2016. Operating as a regional light plant specialist, the business became part of Buckingham’s Consolidated Plant Group in 2017 and moved into purpose-built facilities at the Silverstone Road HQ in 2021.

George Wheeler leads the third generation’s involvement in the business as Operations Director of ACE Plant.

He said: “By retiring our heavy plant fleet and focusing our resources on ACE Plant’s sustainable lithium-powered range, we’re taking a decisive step towards supporting the UK’s net zero goals. It’s an exciting journey to be on.”

“The shift towards sustainable plant operations is not just necessary—it’s inevitable. Our investment strategy demonstrates our commitment to change, ensuring that we operate responsibly while helping to shape the industry’s future. As the utilisation of diesel-powered equipment declines, we’re looking forward to being at the forefront of this vital transformation.”