186 electric buses to replace diesels in £118m drive for cleaner air in South Yorkshire
More than 180 new zero-emission buses are set to hit the road in South Yorkshire to cut emissions and improve journeys.
The government is putting £33.42m into a fleet of 186 electric buses to replace older diesel vehicles.
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority is also contributing £59.28m, and £25.99m for infrastructure, including making Olive Grove a fully electric depot.
The buses will be introduced from September 2027, according to the Department for Transport.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is due to visit the region today, Thursday, March 12, to announce the new funding.
She said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport system, and Sheffield’s passengers deserve a network of well connected, affordable routes they can rely on.
"This funding will replace polluting diesel buses with new electric vehicles that will make a real difference to people's daily lives.”
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “Public transport in South Yorkshire used to be world class. But our buses have been broken for too long. Now, we’re getting on with the job of delivering the promise of a bigger, better transport network, starting with our huge ambition for better buses.
“Today’s investment means we can get on with the job even faster. Upgrading Olive Grove to a fully electric depot and bringing almost 200 new zero‑emission buses into service is a huge step forward for South Yorkshire.
“It means cleaner air, more reliable buses and a much better experience for people.
“This is exactly the kind of practical, everyday progress we can deliver through bus franchising. Taking back control, putting people first and building a transport system that works for South Yorkshire.”
Councillor Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said nitrogen dioxide levels in Sheffield had decreased 23 per cent in the last three years.
He added: “The air we breathe in Sheffield is getting cleaner and new zero emission buses will help us drive this down further. The investment will lead to cleaner air and a better public transport system for everyone.”