Transdev-owned operator commits to green fleet in the town as it awaits delivery of eight electric single-deckers
The Harrogate Bus Company has announced plans to create one of Britain’s first low emissions bus towns in Harrogate.
The North Yorkshire spa town’s MP, Andrew Jones (Conservative) welcomed the announcement by the Transdev-owned company as a ‘positive game changer’ for public transport and the environment.
Work is underway to install wireless charging points at Harrogate Bus Station in preparation for the arrival of eight new Volvo 7900E electric single-decker buses in the Spring, which are expected to enter service later this year on routes between the town centre and Bilton, Jennyfield and Pannal Ash, supported by more than £2m of Government funding.
The operator’s plans were unveiled at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on Thursday, February 15, 2018.
The Harrogate Bus Company CEO, Alex Hornby, said: “We are on a mission to lead by example in our beautiful town by providing the lowest emission vehicles on our streets, and create one of the UK’s first low emission bus towns.
“Rather than waiting for legislation to enforce this, which is coming in the next few years in neighbouring cities such as Leeds, we’re encouraging Harrogate to set a similar standard even sooner.
“We have already cleaned up our diesel buses, meaning these vehicles contribute 96% less nitrogen oxide emissions than previous buses, and less pollution than new diesel cars – but the centrepiece of our strategy is the forthcoming introduction of an industry-leading zero emission electric fleet for the local Harrogate network, part of a £2m investment by Transdev.
“We believe this will shatter any remaining negative perceptions of the bus and truly puts Harrogate and our high quality, low emission travel product on the map.”
Harrogate MP Andrew Jones said the announcement demonstrates The Harrogate Bus Company’s determination to work in partnership with the Government towards making its ambitious five-year vision for the town’s public transport a reality.
He said: “Harrogate is to become the country’s first low emissions bus town, and that’s very positive news for local people, and a positive game changer for public transport and the environment.
“Cutting carbon emissions and improving air quality are transport priorities for the Government, and most important of all, they’re a key priority for people living and working in Harrogate who want the environment improved and the air we breathe cleaned up.
“The Harrogate Bus Company’s parent company Transdev put a powerful and positive case, supported by Harrogate Borough Council, to win £2.25m in Government funding to make their vision a reality and transform travel for thousands of people.
“I’m delighted that Harrogate will lead the way and show the country that cleaner, greener public transport can enhance the quality of life for us all.”
