The UK Bus Manufacturing Panel held its inaugural meeting on 13 March in Sheffield, hosted by Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood. Delegates were from bus builders Alexander Dennis and Wrightbus, industry representative bodies, Combined Authorities, and Transport for London.
In Tracey Brabin (West Yorkshire) and Oliver Coppard (South Yorkshire), two ‘metro mayors’ were present. Panel discussions centred on ensuring that the UK remains a leader in bus manufacturing while at the same time helping local authorities to deliver their transport ambitions, the Department for Transport (DfT) says.
The panel was announced in October 2024. That came soon after claims from Alexander Dennis that UK government and devolved Scottish Government policy on zero-emission buses was “disproportionately” benefitting competitors from lower-cost economies.
Part of the opening panel session was exploration of the importance of prioritising the manufacture of high-quality, zero-emission buses across the regions. Bus builders in attendance stressed economic benefits of the technology that are felt by employees building and later working with those vehicles.
Manufacturers told the panel that such work has potential to support jobs across the UK and help the government to deliver on promises of growth through its Plan for Change.
Other talks included how agencies can work together to build a ‘passenger-first’ bus network with enhanced accessibility and inclusivity. DfT says it wants bus builders “to have a seat at the table as forward-thinking measures on zero-emission buses are considered.”
Speaking about the meeting, Mr Lightwood says: “It was great to kick off our first bus manufacturing expert panel today, bringing together leading bus manufacturers, metro mayors and industry experts to focus on cleaner air and improved transport across the country.
“By creating a pathway for UK manufacturing growth, we are not just transforming our fleets – we are prioritising high-quality buses that meet the needs of passengers, boosting regional economies to drive up living standards, and putting a coalition of highly skilled manufacturers and passionate local leaders at the heart of our zero-emission future.”
