Stagecoach West and Gloucestershire County Council have announced new investments into sustainable transport with the confirmation of a multi-million-pound rollout of 42 new electric buses for Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury.
The project marks a major milestone in the county’s aim to deliver a cleaner, more modern transport network across the region.
The order represents an investment of more than 20 million GBP, which has been funded via a partnership between UK Government, Stagecoach West (17 million GBP) and Gloucestershire County Council (3.5 million GBP).
Electrification of the depot will support a number crucial routes across the region, including the 1, 2, 2A and 71 in Gloucester, and the 94, 95, 94X, 41, 42, 43 and T in Cheltenham, as well as provide improvements for key services in Gloucester and Cheltenham and electrifying all routes to and from Tewkesbury.
To celebrate, an event was held at the Stagecoach West depot in Gloucester, with attendees including local stakeholders, media, and project partners.
Guests were able to get a first look at the new infrastructure programme, which will see the installation of solar panels and high-powered charging systems.
Chris Hanson, Managing Director at Stagecoach West, said:This investment is a huge leap forward for greener travel. These new electric buses don’t just help the environment; they transform the passenger experience. Residents will have better buses, cleaner air, and reduce their carbon footprint.
The first electric buses are set to enter operation in early 2026, with depot upgrades now underway.
