Stagecoach South East will commence operation of the Dover Fastrack bus rapid transit corridor from this summer, Kent County Council (KCC) has announced.
A dedicated fleet of five battery-electric buses will be introduced by the end of 2024, with an interim fleet used until then. KCC recently confirmed that fleet procurement for the Dover work has been separated from that exercise for the Thameside Fastrack network, which will see Go-Ahead London operate 28 Irizar ie tram models.
The Dover Fastrack project is being delivered by KCC in partnership with Dover District Council and Homes England. A Housing Infrastructure Fund grand is supporting housing developments at Whitfield and the former Connaught Barracks site in the port town.
KCC adds that Fastrack Dover infrastructure work worth £23 million is progressing well. All 33 buses for the two Kent networks will be part-funded by money secured by the local authority from the first round of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas fund.
Launch in Dover had most recently been expected for early 2024, but KCC says that delays in the supply chain and seasonal conditions mean that the route’s commencement is now hoped for by the end of July.
Stagecoach South East Commercial Director Matthew Arnold adds that the operator “will be working closely with suppliers and stakeholders to introduce the first zero-emission buses to this part of Kent.”
Comments KCC Director of Highways and Transportation Haroona Chughtai: “Alongside Kent Thameside’s Fastrack, Dover Fastrack will be Kent’s first zero-emission bus service with a fleet of brand-new electric buses.
“We are looking forward to working with Stagecoach on making sure this service is reliable, useful and convenient for residents. Our ambition is to make it easier for people to choose public transport for their journeys before jumping in their car, and we are excited that this project is progressing.”
Stagecoach South East has confirmed that KCC is investigating provision of the interim fleet and that the operator is discussing options with the local authority.
