New electric buses will take over the service from early 2025, the operator says, as part of its 15 year contract
The Go-Ahead Group says it has successfully mobilised operations on the Fastrack network across North Kent under a 15 year contract in an agreement with Kent County Council that is worth £110 million. Operations commenced with an interim diesel fleet, drafted in to replace the branded Enviro200s used by previous operator Arriva, before transitioning to a fully electric fleet using 28 Irizar ieTrams, which are expected to be in operation by spring 2025.
Fastrack Development Manager at Kent County Council Shane Hymer said: “It’s been a breath of fresh air working with Go-Ahead on delivering the next generation of Fastrack. Putting the customer first has been our shared ambition on this journey and so much has been achieved in a relative short space of time. This new operational focus and extended service is just the first step of the new look Fastrack and we remain on course to deliver the full electric Fastrack network in 2025, bringing our full investment to life.”
Managing Director for UK Regional Bus at Go-Ahead Group Martin Dean added: “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Kent County Council to manage and operate the Fastrack network. We’re ready to make a difference for the customers and communities who will rely on our services and look forward to introducing a transformational zero-emission fleet with all new buses set to be operational by spring 2025, benefiting our customers and the environment.”
