Today’s Department of Transport announcement confirmed that Torbay Council, in partnership with Stagecoach, have been successful in their bid for Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) funding. The award of £7.1m will provide a new zero-emission bus fleet for the bay.
Roll-out of zero-emission buses is a key aim of the Torbay Enhanced Partnership Plan (EPP). Investment in electric buses will reduce carbon emissions and contribute to net-zero targets. The new buses will also improve comfort and accessibility for all passengers.
The EPP is an agreement between the council and bus operators to work together to improve local bus services. Torbay Council and Stagecoach will combine resources to deliver zero-emission bus services for the future of Torbay.
The new buses will be good for the environment and improve the experience of passengers. Local residents will also benefit from reduced noise and pollution. The partnership believes these benefits will encourage more people to use the local bus network in line with the national bus strategy.
Investment in a new electric bus fleet is part of a wider strategy including the installation of vehicle charge points. These measures are a significant step forward in the delivery of a modern decarbonised transport network in Torbay.
The initiatives will provide people across Torbaywith the choice to travel how they want to.
Cllr Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking for Torbay Council, said;“Today’s funding announcement should be recognised as a defining moment for public transport in Torbay.
“£7.1m will allow us to work with Stagecoach to deliver a public transport system fit for future generations. The provision of an electric bus fleet provides local communities with enhanced, zero-emission, transport options.
“The funding puts the council closer towards realising our ambition of a decarbonised transport system, providing genuine choice for how the community choose to travel around Torbay. We are confident that the new zero-emission vehicles will encourage more people to use the bus as their first option for transport.”
Peter Knight, Managing Director at Stagecoach South West, said, “This is an exciting and important moment for Stagecoach in the South West. As a key driver of supporting the move to net zero, our sustainability strategy sets out a roadmap to decarbonise by 70% by 2035 and to become a carbon-neutral business by 2050.
“We welcome this allocation of funding to local authorities for investment in new zero-emission buses. This support gives renewed confidence to the whole supply chain and will unlock significant private sector investment into new, clean vehicles.
“Securing this funding in partnership with Torbay Council will get us on the road to deliver our shared ambitions to reduce carbon emissions, deliver cleaner air and thriving bus services that support our region. We are delighted that government and Stagecoach Group are investing in the South West and we look forward to welcoming the new fleet that will benefit the local community and bus users alike.”
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