Former Trentbarton and Kinchbus Managing Director Jeff Counsell has rejoined the industry to become Electric Vehicle Director for Warrington’s Own Buses.
Mr Counsell, who worked in the sector for almost 50 years before his retirement from the East Midlands operation in February, will oversee Warrington’s wholesale conversion to electric buses.
As well as rolling out the ordered 105 Volvo BZL vehicles, he will look after finalising the readying of the new electric depot. The first vehicles are due to enter service this year, while the transformation is due to be complete by next spring.
Mr Counsell, who will work closely with the bus company, Warrington Borough Council, Volvo and EO, says: “I’m very excited to be working alongside and supporting Ben and the whole team at Warrington’s Own Buses in making the transition to an all-electric fleet a reality.
“The investment in their new depot together with their hugely successful ZEBRA bid places Warrington ahead of the game in the move to zero emissions and I’m looking forward to working with all stakeholders and staff in making it happen.”
He started out at Trentbarton in 1999 as Engineering Director, later becoming Director of Service Delivery and then MD in 2009. At the time of his retirement, he indicated his passion for the industry, saying: “I will still be riding on buses, and not just because it has been my job for so long. I am a passionate believer in all public transport.”
Ben Wakerley, MD of Warrington’s Own Buses, adds: “I am pleased to have Jeff on board for this significant project. Jeff’s experience will be invaluable to us.”
