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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

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Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...
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Arriva’s Zero-Emission Revolution Hits Thornton Heath Bus Depot

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Arriva’s turning up the voltage in London, celebrating the electrification of its third bus depot as part of a bold march towards zero emissions. The Thornton Heath site in south London is the latest to join the green revolution, set to power up 109 electric buses by spring 2025. That’s thanks to a shiny new electricity substation and some seriously advanced charging tech.

A red double-decker bus displaying an Arriva logo, parked in a bus depot, showcasing its iconic design and vibrant color.
Arriva Bus UK

This isn’t just a one-off. Thornton Heath is the third pit stop in Arriva’s £730 million electrification marathon. By 2030, all 14 of its London depots will be juiced up, helping Transport for London (TfL) smash its target of a fully decarbonised bus fleet. With 1,500 buses running on roughly 100 TfL routes, Arriva’s making its presence felt.

Jens Abromeit, Managing Director, Arriva UK Bus, said:

“I’m proud that our programme of depot electrification is gathering pace in London with this third depot now ready to serve a substantial fleet of zero-emission buses. This represents a significant investment for Arriva and a commitment to working in partnership with TfL to deliver on their decarbonisation agenda. With each depot we electrify, we are reducing emissions and improving air quality, whilst also setting new standards in passenger comfort.”

Thornton Heath isn’t just getting an upgrade; it’s getting a whole new vibe. A 5km maze of underground cabling now handles the hefty juice needed to charge a small army of buses all at once. Starting with 22 electric buses, the depot will ramp up to its full fleet of 109 once the diesel refuelling tanks are decommissioned next spring.

This follows electrification of Arriva’s Brixton Tramshed and Enfield depots, which were wired up back in 2021 and now keep 54 electric buses buzzing. Meanwhile, work is already underway to electrify more depots at Tottenham, Palmers Green, Croydon and Norwood, with the rest to follow suit.

Arriva UK Bus isn’t just along for the ride; they’re driving the change. With around 17% of London’s bus services under their belt, they’re leading from the front in the capital’s electrification race. 

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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

By on
Image
Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...
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