ENVIRONMENTALLY-friendly new electric buses are rolling into Warwickshire.
The government has awarded £4.3million to Warwickshire County Council (WCC) to fund 27 new zero emission buses, which will take to the streets of Warwick, Leamington, Rugby, Stratford District and Nuneaton.
The buses will replace older diesel models on the number 1 route which links Warwick, Leamington and Whitnash, the number 4 route in Rugby, and four routes in Nuneaton.
Service 77/78, which serves rural settlements in the Stratford District via Kineton, will also use the new buses on Sundays when demand on other routes is lower.
As well as lowering emissions, the Department for Transport said the new buses would also be quieter and more comfortable for passengers.
They will also meet Enhanced Accessibility Standards, and come with features such as wi-fi and USB charging sockets.
WCC transport spokesman Coun Jan Matecki said: “This is a huge step forward for sustainable transport in our region, offering cleaner air and a quieter environment for everyone.
“We’re fully committed to making public transport a more attractive and cleaner option for residents, and this investment will play an important role in achieving that goal. It will also help us reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for Warwickshire.”
Marianne Rolfe, the council’s Head of Safer Communities, Leisure and Environment, said the investment was a ‘significant step’ towards a cleaner and healthier environment.
She said: “By transitioning to zero emission buses, we’re not only reducing emissions but also leading the way towards a more sustainable future.
“We’re grateful for the support and look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on our air quality and overall wellbeing.”
Mark Whitelock, Managing Director Stagecoach Midlands, also welcomed the announcement.
He added: “This is a really positive step forward in helping to reduce carbon emissions and deliver cleaner air for those in our communities.
“We look forward to working with Warwickshire County Council and partners to deliver our ambitions for a thriving bus service that support local communities.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/public-transport for more information about Public Transport in Warwickshire.
