- UK bus operator, First Bus, is preparing to accelerate the rollout of electric bus models across Norfolk, with work now underway to prepare its Great Yarmouth bus depot.
- The work will include the installation of high-power charging infrastructure, helping support the introduction of another 10 electric buses to the network.
- Similar construction will also be undertaken at First Bus’ Norwich bus depot in the coming months, supporting the rollout of another 14 electric buses.
The electric bus rollout continues at pace in the UK
The new electrification works taking place at Great Yarmouth’s Caister Road bus depot are part of a £13.8 million investment into the region, funded by both First Bus and Norfolk County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, which is helping to support the rollout of cleaner and greener electric buses.
This development will not only be a benefit for public transport, but also for electric car drivers. Once completed, the depot will also join its ‘First Charge’ public charging network, which allows the public to access this infrastructure during periods when not required for electric buses.
First Bus are already operating 70 electric buses across Norfolk thanks to the earlier transformation of its Roundtree Way depot in Norwich, and with these two depots now also set to receive high-power charging infrastructure, another 24 electric buses will join the network in the future.
First Bus is also undertaking similar works elsewhere in the country, as part of the company’s goal to have a nationwide zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
Simon Mathieson, Managing Director of First Bus East of England, commented:
“The transformation of Roundtree Way in Norwich showed what can be achieved when strong partnerships come together, with £37.2 million invested through ZEBRA funding, Norfolk County Council and First Bus. This next phase of investment, supported by BSIP funding and our own continued commitment, allows us to bring the benefits of electric buses to Great Yarmouth and more communities across Norfolk.”
Graham Plant, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Transport at Norfolk County Council, added:
“This investment demonstrates how our Bus Service Improvement Plan is helping to deliver real, visible improvements for passengers. By working in partnership with First Bus, we’re reducing emissions, improving air quality and supporting the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable bus network across Norfolk.”
