Bus firm awarded funds to introduce electric fleet

Traffic delays

First Manchester has been granted more than £2m-worth of funds to introduce a fleet of 12 electric buses and supporting infrastructure.

The funding is part of £48m that’s been granted to 19 bidders throughout England and Wales from the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

First Manchester will receive funding from the Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme to buy new low-emission buses and supporting infrastructure such as charge points, which will serve the 582 route between Bolton, Atherton and Leigh.

Air pollution is a big challenge in all large cities and bus operators play a vital role in helping to find solutions to reduce air pollution, but more needs to be done to discourage people from driving into the city by car.

Figures show that buses contribute to 12% of emissions on Greater Manchester roads, but buses can also help to reduce emissions made by cars, as one double decker can take 75 cars off the road.

Ian Humphreys, First Manchester managing director, said: “We’re pleased with today’s announcement, which will see 12 electric buses introduced into our Bolton fleet.

“This will help to improve air quality along the 582 Bolton to Leigh route.

“By working together, local authorities and bus operators can make a real impact on congestion and air quality, provide better services for our customers, support local economies more effectively and, ultimately, help to increase passenger numbers.

“These are all parts of a virtuous circle – more passengers mean fewer cars on the road, less congestion and, in turn, improved air quality.”

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