Derry will become one of the first cities in the UK and Ireland to have a fully zero emission bus fleet after receiving a £30m funding boost.
The Department for Infrastructure is providing the funding to deliver 38 new zero emission battery electric buses for the Foyle Metro service across the city.
Infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon said: ‘My department previously allocated funding of almost £74m for the purchase of 145 zero and low emission buses for the Translink fleet.
’I am delighted today, at COP26, to announce additional funding of £30m for the purchase of 38 new zero emission battery electric buses for the Foyle Metro fleet which will allow Derry to have a fully zero-emission bus fleet when all the vehicles go into passenger service in 2023.’
Translink Group chief executive, Chris Conway, said: ‘There will be a mix of both single and double decker buses bringing enhanced capacity and with the latest passenger comfort features including WiFi, USB chargers and accessibility features like audio visual next stop announcements, this is great news for everyone.’
The funding has been welcomed by mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Graham Warke, who said sustainable transport was a key objective in its City Deal plans.
’By replacing the current Foyle Metro fleet with new zero emission battery electric buses the department and Translink are providing cleaner and greener transport facilities for our city and helping make a positive impact on our air quality and our ongoing commitment to protecting our local environment,’ he said.
‘I strongly believe that low emission public transport in our city will make it more accessible to local communities.’
Photo: Slr729
