Work begins at Great Yarmouth depot as Norfolk’s electric bus programme expands
Upgrades will introduce zero-emission buses and a high-power charging network
Work has started at First Bus’ Great Yarmouth depot on Caister Road as part of Norfolk’s expansion of zero-emission public transport.
The project, supported by a £13.8 million investment, will prepare the site for the introduction of 10 electric buses servicing local routes, including Service 8. This route connects James Paget University Hospital to Caister via Great Yarmouth town centre.
Funded by £8.9 million from First Bus and a grant from Norfolk County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), the investment also includes installing high-power charging infrastructure at the depot.
Once upgrades are complete, the electric buses are expected to be in operation by the autumn, offering quieter journeys, improved passenger experience, and zero tailpipe emissions for the local community.
Expansion across Norfolk
In addition to Great Yarmouth, works are due to begin at First Bus's Vulcan Road depot in Norwich in the coming months. This site will accommodate 14 electric buses operating on routes linking Thorpe Marriott, Horsford, Mulbarton, and Ives Road with Norwich city centre.
The wider programme builds on the successful introduction of 70 electric buses at First Bus's Roundtree Way depot in Norwich in 2024. That earlier project included a £37.2 million investment in vehicles and infrastructure, supported by £14.7 million in Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) funding from the Department for Transport, along with £22.5 million from First Bus.
Simon Mathieson, Managing Director of First Bus East of England, said:
“The transformation of Roundtree Way in Norwich showed what can be achieved when strong partnerships come together, with £37.2 million invested through ZEBRA funding, Norfolk County Council and First Bus. This next phase of investment, supported by BSIP funding and our own continued commitment, allows us to bring the benefits of electric buses to Great Yarmouth and more communities across Norfolk.”
The improvements at Great Yarmouth will also add the depot to First Bus's expanding First Charge network, enabling the site to provide high-power electric charging to third-party fleets.
Cllr Graham Plant, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Transport at Norfolk County Council, said:
“This investment demonstrates how our Bus Service Improvement Plan is helping to deliver real, visible improvements for passengers. By working in partnership with First Bus, we’re reducing emissions, improving air quality and supporting the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable bus network across Norfolk.”
Through projects like these, Norfolk is making progress toward a greener, more sustainable public transport system that benefits communities while reducing environmental impact.