£20m funding to roll out zero-emission buses and create jobs across the West of England

The government has unveiled a £20m investment to introduce 160 new zero-emission buses by 2027 in the West of England.

The funding – totalling £38m for 319 new buses across England – aims to improve the quality of public transport, while also creating jobs in engineering, construction and green manufacturing.

Ministers said vital bus routes would be given a new lease of life and singled out Bristol, where the funding will be used to expand zero emission bus services across 22 different routes through the city, connecting passengers with vital services including hospitals and universities.

The funding will support new zero-emissions buses in Salisbury and Plymouth.

It is also helping drive the ongoing progress of the Bus Services Bill, which gives local authorities more control over services and supports the UK’s goal of transitioning to a fully electric bus fleet by phasing out diesel and petrol buses.

Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said every pound of Government funding was set to be topped up by at least £3 of private investment.
He added: “I’m thrilled to announce this £38m investment, which will deliver 319 new zero-emission buses to communities across England by 2027.

“This funding will not only make bus travel cleaner, greener, and more comfortable, but it will deliver on our Plan for Change; creating jobs, supporting local economies, and accelerating our journey towards a zero-emission future.

“By backing local councils and UK manufacturers, we are putting the power in the hands of communities, while helping to deliver on our vision of a sustainable, green transport network. From Hull to Hove, there’s an electrifying future on the way for our buses.”