Funding approved for fleet of publicly-owned buses

The buses in the fleet will be electric and zero emission

Funding for a fleet of publicly-owned electric buses in West Yorkshire has been approved by council leaders.

A new franchised network will see bus fares, routes and timetables set by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, as part of the Weaver Network.

The authority has started a process for selecting operators to run services on its behalf from April 2027.

A deposit of £30m was approved by committee members to ensure the zero emission vehicles will be delivered in time.

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: "This investment is a major step towards exciting changes for our region's buses.

"A brand new fleet of zero emission electric vehicles, including features and designs shaped by the people who use them, will be a vital part of an integrated Weaver Network that makes sustainable travel the easy choice.

"Bringing buses under our control will ensure that services work for passengers, creating a greener, better-connected region for everyone."

Franchised services will be rolled out across the region in three phases, concluding in 2028.

They will form a key part of an integrated Weaver Network, which aims to bring together buses, trains and walking and cycling routes.

According to the combined authority, the public will be able to help shape some customer features on the new fleet of buses, such as accessibility, seating, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, with a consultation due to be held in the autumn.

The total cost for the first bus fleet order is estimated to be up to £100m.

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