Bradford brings forward full electric bus fleet by 18 months with £14.2 million funding package
By Eve
Bradford has accelerated its zero emission bus transition by 18 months after securing £8 million from the Joint Air Quality Unit, matched by £6.2 million from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. The £14.2 million programme will fund depot upgrades at the First Bus site, including a new substation, high capacity cabling and smart chargers, with the first electric buses on key routes expected in spring 2027. Fifteen electric buses already operate between Keighley and Bradford, representing 12% of the current 125 vehicle fleet, ahead of a full transition to 116 Weaver branded electric buses under the franchising scheme from October 2028.
Why it matters: The project demonstrates how combined central and regional funding can accelerate fleet electrification timelines, creating near term depot infrastructure work including substation construction and smart charging installations. The phased rollout offers a model for other UK local authorities planning franchised electric bus networks, with procurement opportunities emerging 12 to 18 months earlier than originally scheduled.