The Scottish Government has allocated £3.7 million towards the cost of purchasing 83 low-emission buses. Nine bus operators have been awarded funding through round five of the Scottish Green Bus Fund.
This year’s successful bidders include: First Glasgow, Wilson’s of Rhu, Secure Airparks, First Scotland East, Lothian Buses, Stagecoach North Scotland, Deveron Coaches and Orkney Islands Council.
It will bring the total number of low emission vehicles in Scotland’s fleet to 209. Performance returns from operators confirm that buses purchased through the Fund are delivering significant fuel savings and reduced emissions.
Scottish Transport Minister, Keith Brown MSP, said, “I am encouraged by the interest in this year’s Scottish Green Bus Fund which will contribute to another 83 low carbon emission vehicles on Scotland’s roads.
“This fund is helping our bus industry invest in the latest emission reducing technology and is another clear indication of our support and commitment to the bus industry in Scotland.”
Dave Alexander, Regional Managing Director for First UK Bus in Scotland and North England, added, “The Scottish Green Bus Fund is a fantastic initiative and will support our £7.8m investment in 52 state-of-the-art green vehicles. We’re especially pleased to welcome electric buses into our Scottish fleet for the first time.”
The Scottish Green Bus Fund aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and accessibility and encourage ‘modal shift’.
