Depot space to house a 150-strong zero-emission bus fleet is planned to be established in Ipswich by Sizewell C to support workforce transport for the under-construction nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast.
If approved, it will see expansion of the existing depot at the Ransomes Europark industrial estate in Ipswich. The plant says that “a mixed fleet” will be hosted and that up to 400 jobs will be created. An application for planning permission will be submitted to Ipswich Borough Council over coming weeks with a decision expected by the spring.
The Ransomes Europark site measures 4.3 acres and will be refurbished before use if the planning application is successful. Battery-electric charging points and hydrogen dispensing points may be included in such fit-out.
At peak construction, Sizewell C will employ 7,900 people, many of whom will travel via two park-and-ride sites on the A12. One of those is already open, with a second due to follow in February.
Four Wrightbus hydrogen fuel cell-electric buses alongside a number of diesel vehicles are already at work, operated on behalf of Sizewell C by First Bus subsidiary Specialist Passenger Solutions (SPS) from the existing depot. SPS currently holds an O-Licence authorising 35 vehicles from two locations at Ransomes Europark.
A hydrogen fuelling station has been established to support the zero-emission buses. Wrightbus sister business Ryze Power is providing green hydrogen and was awarded over £3 million of government funding to test a mobile fuelling system.
The Wrightbus vehicles are part of what the plant described as a pilot to test operational performance of such driveline technology. When they entered service, it was suggested that the wider fleet of around 150 could also be hydrogen powered. The trial is described as successful by Sizewell C.
Head of Regional External Affairs and Development Marjorie Barnes adds: “The bus depot is central to delivering our pledge made with Ipswich MP Jack Abbott, which guarantees at least 500 local jobs by connecting people with employment and training opportunities.
“Roles will include drivers, engineers, and maintenance staff who will help to keep the fleet safe and clean. At least 75% of the driver roles we create will come from within the region, supported by training to gain a PCV licence as well as essential maths and English skills to build long-term employability.”
