The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has announced a £37.8m government investment to encourage green transport, with 319 new zero emission buses.
The funding has been allocated to 12 local authorities across England – following bids to expand their zero emission bus fleets – and will see 319 buses serving passengers by spring 2027.
DfT reports that for every pound of government funding is set to be topped up by at least £3 of private investment.
Nottinghamshire County Council will receive £2.6m to launch 42 new electric buses, Hull City Council £3.9m for 42 vehicles and the West of England Combined Authority will receive nearly £20m for 160 buses.
This funding comes on top of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area 2 programme, which DfT reports has funded a further 995 zero emission buses.
Local transport minister Simon Lightwood said: “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.”
Achievements and innovations in sustainable public transport will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
