Leicester City Council unveils £75m bus network investment with prospect of self-driving buses
Plans aim for fully electric fleet and improved infrastructure by 2027
Leicester City Council has announced a substantial £75m investment into the city’s bus network, with targets including a fully electric fleet and enhanced infrastructure by the end of 2027.
This strategic plan, disclosed on 3rd August, hints at the future introduction of self-driving buses, according to decision documents dated 10th August.
Officers propose trialling automation for a Leicester route if additional funding becomes available, with the Hop! service—connecting key locations like Haymarket and the railway station—identified as a potential candidate.
The exploration of self-driving technology aligns with national trends, as councils across Suffolk, Cambridge, and Milton Keynes consider implementing similar projects.
Expected to carry a £3m price tag, details and timelines for the trial remain to be finalized, dependent on funding and considerations regarding operational safety.
A council spokesperson expressed interest in participating in national self-driving trials, contingent upon safety assurances and funding opportunities, representing a long-term ambition for Leicester.
These bold initiatives reflect Leicester’s commitment to modernizing its public transport infrastructure, spotlighting innovation and sustainability.