New depot will improve Peterborough's busses claim

Plans for a new bus depot in Peterborough have advanced after funding was approved by the Combined Authority Board during its meeting yesterday (Wednesday 28th January).

The Board agreed to support the outline business case for the depot, marking a step forward in the Mayor’s regional transport improvement strategy. The funding will enable a full business case to be developed and land acquisition to begin, with any purchase agreements expected to be presented to the Board for approval in March 2026.

The new facility aims to meet the city’s rising transport demand, facilitate future fleet expansions including electric buses, and pave the way for a possible franchised bus network. The current depot is considered inadequate due to its location, size constraints, and lack of charging facilities.

Peterborough City Council has partnered with the Combined Authority to develop the depot, which aligns with the Local Growth Plan published late last year. This plan seeks to unlock infrastructure potential to boost productivity and economic growth.

Other projects aiming to improve regional transport, such as works at Peterborough Station Quarter starting this spring, form part of these efforts to enhance travel options across the city.

The funding approved for this phase is up to £7.6m of an estimated total project cost of £20.6m.

Paul Bristow said: “I am thrilled to have the backing of my Board for this project. A new bus depot is clearly needed and will help provide the better services and economic growth I’m determined to deliver for Peterborough.

“I’m now looking forward to cracking on and securing a site for it.”

Councillor Angus Ellis, Peterborough City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: “I am delighted the Combined Authority have approved the first part of funding to build a bigger and better bus depot for the city to enable providers to expand their fleet and increase the use of electric vehicles.

“This is just one part of our wider vision, outlined in our corporate strategy, to support the transition to active and sustainable travel in Peterborough.

“A bigger and better Peterborough needs to give our residents a range of transport options, and this should lead to improved and more environmentally friendly bus services for those who live in, work in and visit the city.”