Go-Ahead has mobilised its North Kent Fastrack bus rapid transit (BRT) network in partnership with Kent County Council.
The 15-year contract, worth £110 million, commences with a diesel fleet with the expectation that vehicles in service will be transitioned to electric by spring 2025.
28 zero-emission Irizar ie trams are slated to eventually operate the service with on-street charging infrastructure. £850,000 from the first round of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas scheme is contributing to their purchase.
Says Shane Hymer, Fastrack Development Manager, Kent County Council: “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”.
Adds Martin Dean, Managing Director for UK Regional Bus, Go-Ahead Group: “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, benefitting our customers and the environment.”
