Major Investment Announced for Zero Emission Buses
Up to 500 UK manufacturing jobs are set to be supported as bus operator Go Ahead announces a substantial £500 million investment to decarbonise its fleet. This initiative includes creating a dedicated manufacturing line in partnership with Northern Ireland-based bus manufacturer Wrightbus, which will manufacture 1,200 new zero-emission buses over the next three years.
Transforming Public Transport Across the UK
The significant investment will enable Go Ahead to accelerate the transition to greener buses in various regions, including Plymouth, Gloucestershire, East Yorkshire, London, and the Isle of Wight. This initiative aims to ensure greener and better journeys for passengers while directly supporting 500 manufacturing jobs. Additionally, the investment for Wrightbus will bolster an extra 2,000 jobs across the wider UK supply chain by 2026, contributing to economic growth.
Creating a UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel
As part of the announcement, the Transport Secretary plans to establish a UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel. This panel will convene industry experts and local leaders to explore strategies to maintain the UK’s leadership in bus manufacturing. The objective is to assist local authorities in fulfilling their transport goals and to seize opportunities for integrating zero-emission transport technologies.
Government Commitment to Decarbonising Local Transport
The Transport Secretary is set to meet with key industry leaders, including Wrightbus owner Jo Bamford and CEO Jean-Marc Gales, to reaffirm the government’s dedication to decarbonising local transport. This commitment aims to create an environment conducive to investment in the UK manufacturing industry, fostering sustained economic growth and job creation.
Preparations for the International Investment Summit
This announcement comes just ahead of the International Investment Summit, which will bring together UK leaders, prominent investors, and businesses from around the globe to discuss strategies for deepening partnerships to enhance investment and growth opportunities.
During the summit, the Transport Secretary intends to hold multiple bilateral meetings with international business leaders to communicate the UK’s openness to business, aiming to attract further investments that align with national transport priorities.
Prime Minister’s Engagement with Regional Leaders
The Prime Minister is set to host the inaugural Council of Nations and Regions later this week, bringing together first ministers, the First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland, along with regional mayors from across England. The government aims to forge new partnerships and reset relationships to secure long-term investments, ultimately boosting growth and living standards throughout the UK.
Transport Secretary’s Statement on Investment
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh remarked, ‘The primary objective of this government is to stimulate economic growth. Today’s announcement of a £500 million investment by Go Ahead demonstrates the industry’s confidence in investing within the UK. This initiative will ensure that communities nationwide enjoy the advantages of brand new, cutting-edge green buses, resulting in cleaner air and enhanced travel experiences.
Environmental Commitment
In an environmentally friendly initiative, Go Ahead and Wrightbus will plant ten trees for every vehicle manufactured in the communities where the buses will operate. This commitment underscores the government’s priority of improving bus services and fostering greener transport solutions.
A Step Towards a Greener Future
Go Ahead Bus CEO Matt Carney and Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales echoed the significance of this partnership, emphasising the investment’s role in supporting local jobs and contributing to the UK’s decarbonisation goals. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in the journey toward a sustainable transport sector in the UK.
